With Neeraj Chopra poised to surpass many cricketers in brand valuation, Manu Bhaker is also securing significant endorsement deals.
The success of Indian athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympics has led to a substantial boost in their brand value. Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra and shooter Manu Bhaker, both of whom now boast two Olympic medals, are witnessing remarkable increases in their brand worth. Neeraj secured a silver medal in javelin at Paris 2024, while Manu emerged as India’s breakout star, clinching two bronze medals and narrowly missing a third podium finish. While Neeraj’s brand valuation is expected to exceed that of many cricketers, Manu is also signing lucrative deals.
According to Economic Times, using data from financial advisory firm Kroll, Neeraj Chopra’s valuation is projected to rise from USD 29.6 million to over USD 40 million (approximately Rs 330 crore). Before the Olympics, Neeraj’s brand valuation was comparable to that of Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya, but he is now expected to surpass him as well.
Neeraj already holds the title of the highest-valued non-cricketer among Indian sportspersons and is anticipated to widen the gap further.
On the other hand, Manu Bhaker could be another sensation in this realm. The 22-year-old shooter recently signed a brand endorsement deal worth a staggering Rs 1.5 crore with soft drink brand ThumsUp.
As per the report, Bhaker’s endorsement fee prior to the Paris 2024 Olympics was around Rs 25 lakh per deal annually. That figure has now increased significantly. Recently, Neerav Tomar, CEO and MD of IOS Sports and Entertainment, which manages Bhaker, revealed to Times of India that approximately 40 brands had expressed interest in securing Bhaker’s endorsement.
Although she didn’t win a medal, wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was arguably India’s best performer at Paris 2024, is also seeing her stock rise. Similar to Bhaker, Vinesh’s endorsement fee has surged from Rs 25 lakh per deal annually to around Rs 1 crore.
