Aug. 21, 2019
SportsPro has released its tenth annual list of the world's 50 most marketable athletes, with tennis star Naomi Osaka heading the class of 2019. Editor at large Eoin Connolly talks to editorial director Michael Long about what the feature is intended to accomplish, its unique criteria, how it has changed to reflect the media marketplace and the interests of brands, and the role of social data partner Hookit in compiling it.
Then it's over to SportsPro HQ where digital editor Tom Bassam and senior writer Sam Carp are on hand to talk through some of the themes that emerge from this year's edition.
What puts Osaka on top? How are brands becoming more comfortable with outspoken ambassadors like Megan Rapinoe? What magnetises people to young talents like Zion Williamson, Jofra Archer and Chloe Kim, or keeps them interested in established megastars like Stephen Curry? How are the stories of marketable athletes changing in their detail and range, and what do brands need to be aware of before they sign?
