Indian limited overs skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has managed to be the top most valued athlete in India as per the recently released Forbes Fab 40.
However, there has been a huge dip in the value of MS Dhoni as the 35-year old value is now evaluated at $11 million. Dhoni’s value a year ago was $21 million which means a considerable dip which might be alarming. However, despite this, the veteran cricketer has still managed 10th position globally making the sole athlete to represent both cricket and country in Top-10.
Forbes Fab 40 list is a unique list which estimates the brand value of top sports labels, athletes, teams and events every year using different methodologies and is one of the most accurate listings in the world.
The methods provide the exact value of the athletes or teams’ brand rather than the income they earn every year. This year’s listing also saw Tennis legend Roger Federer being named the most valued athlete in the world as he toppled American golf pro Tiger Woods from top position.
The tennis ace was third last season but has risen two spots to clinch the top position making him most valued Athlete in the world. His brand value is estimated to be around $36 million. Other notable players in the top 10 are Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid who managed to be No.6 while Lionel Messi of Barcelona has managed his first ever top-10 position by landing at No.8. Meanwhile, last year’s most valued athlete Woods has dropped four spots to be at a fifth position in the list.
As far as brand labels are concerned, Nike, ESPN and Adidas have continued their dominance in the top three positions as they are valued at $27 billion, $ 16.5 billion and $7 billion respectively.