Annual Earnings: Roger Federer’s staggering deal with Uniqlo brings in roughly £24 million every year, which is significantly higher than Raducanu’s new £2.8 million annual payout with the same brand. This reflects the difference between a global icon at the end of a historic career and a young star entering her prime.

Total Contract Value: The total value of Federer’s ten-year agreement is a guaranteed £240 million, a figure that remains a record in tennis history. Raducanu’s multi-year deal is estimated at roughly £15 million, depending on the final length and any performance bonuses.

Career Stage at Signing: Federer signed his contract at 36 years old with 20 Grand Slam titles already under his belt as a legacy play. At 23, Raducanu signed her deal this week as a growth play, looking to revitalise her brand after moving on from her long-term Nike partnership.

The “Retirement” Factor: Federer famously secured a retirement-proof clause, ensuring his £24 million annual earnings continue even though he stepped away from the sport in 2022. Raducanu’s contract is a standard active-player agreement, meaning her income is likely tied to her ongoing participation in the WTA Tour.

Target Market Appeal: Federer represents a gold standard that appeals heavily to high-end European and North American luxury markets. Raducanu offers a strategic boost in China, where her heritage and Mandarin skills align perfectly with Uniqlo’s massive retail presence in Asia.

Footwear Independence: Following Federer’s blueprint, Raducanu used this apparel-only deal to break free from Nike’s requirement to wear their trainers. This allows her the freedom to sign a separate footwear deal, much like Federer did when he became a major shareholder in the Swiss brand On.

Brand Pioneer Status: Federer served as the face of the brand’s men’s division for years, following in the footsteps of Novak Djokovic. Raducanu makes history as the first female singles tennis player to ever be signed to Uniqlo’s elite roster of global ambassadors.

Creative Input: Federer had significant influence over his “RF” branding and the classic, minimalist aesthetic of his match kits. Raducanu is reportedly set to collaborate directly with Uniqlo’s designers to create custom on-court outfits that blend their “LifeWear” philosophy with her personal style.

The Nike Exit Strategy: Both athletes left Nike after their contracts expired, seeking more lucrative and flexible terms elsewhere. While Nike let Federer go due to his age, the split with Raducanu suggests a shift in the brand’s strategy to focus on a smaller group of consistent top-five stars.