"Is it more inspiration to be a WAG than a female athlete" - Australian tennis star laments over influencers getting brand deals before actual athletes

With social media playing a larger role in today's society, it comes as no surprise that companies are employing various ways to market their products. However, tennis star Daria Saville voiced her concerns that these brand deals are going to influencers and WAGS (wives and girlfriends of famous athletes) as opposed to actual female athletes.

The Australian star took to social media to vent her frustrations in a video posted to TikTok, where she called out marketing teams for targeting WAGS and influencers for brand campaigns.

Read also

WTA Rankings Update: Jessica Pegula dethrones Coco Gauff to return to career best, Aryna Sabalenka marks 33rd week as World No.1

Saville not alone in her frustrations

"Let’s talk brand deals for a second, tennis aesthetics are in right now, right?” began the 31-year old. "It’s all over the place, but female tennis players are not getting those brand deals. It’s actually tennis WAGs that fit into the ‘aesthetics’ rather than us sweaty tennis players.
"I’ve spoken to a few influencer WAGs, and they’re surprised that we don’t get the same opportunities. Is it that athletes are not as relatable as WAGs to the audience?

Although no names were mentioned, Morgan Riddle, girlfriend of ATP star Taylor Fritz, is one of the most popular tennis WAG. The influencer has nearly 1 million followers on social media and has inked multiple brand deals.

"I’ve got a personality and it’s salty right now," Saville continued. "Do marketing teams think tennis players are too niche compared to a WAG? Is that the whole glamorous life compared to sweat life? Is it more inspiration to be a WAG than a female athlete?
“Honestly, it’s mind blogging to me that brands are pickling influences for their campaigns during Grand Slams. And I’m definitely not the only female tennis player that feels that way. Marketing girls, why is that? Sorry if I cam across salty AF. I’m done here."

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Unlock your ultimate tennis experience—subscribe today for exclusive access to top stories.

Subscribe