In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the tennis world, American player Sachia Vickery has disclosed how creating an OnlyFans account became her financial lifeline to continue competing at the highest level.
The 28-year-old Florida native made headlines at the US Open after delivering one of the tournament's biggest upsets by defeating Wimbledon champion Jessica Pegula in a thrilling three-set match. However, behind her on-court success lies a story of financial struggle and unconventional solutions.
The Financial Reality of Professional Tennis
Vickery's journey highlights the harsh economic realities facing many professional tennis players outside the sport's elite circle. Despite achieving a career-high ranking of 73rd in 2018, the financial pressures of international competition nearly forced her into early retirement.
"I wasn't making enough money to pay my bills," Vickery confessed during her post-match press conference. "Traveling with a coach, which is pretty much necessary, costs around $100,000 annually. The prize money simply wasn't covering it."
OnlyFans: The Unconventional Solution
Faced with diminishing resources and no sponsorship deals, Vickery turned to the content subscription platform OnlyFans in 2022. While she maintains her content remains tasteful and non-explicit, the move provided the financial stability needed to continue her professional career.
"It was either find another way to make money or stop playing tennis altogether," she explained, highlighting the desperate circumstances that led to her decision.
US Open Breakthrough Performance
Vickery's investment in her career paid spectacularly when she faced world number three Jessica Pegula on Court 17. In a match that captivated spectators, she battled back from a set down to claim a monumental 6-4, 3-6, 2-6 victory.
The win marks her first against a top-five ranked opponent and sets up an exciting third-round clash against Belarusian powerhouse Aryna Sabalenka, adding another chapter to her remarkable comeback story.
Vickery's candid discussion about her financial struggles and unconventional funding method has sparked important conversations about the economic challenges within professional tennis and the lengths athletes must sometimes go to pursue their dreams.
