Cars of the Tennis Stars

Washington DC August 28, 2008; The AIADA newsletter reported that with the U.S. Open in full swing, there is no better time to analyze what the stars of the courts are driving.

With millions in the bank and automakers lining up to sign sponsorship deals, getting cars isn't the problem for top tennis pros, it's finding time to drive them.

Automakers have long sponsored tennis tournaments. Mercedes-Benz is the title sponsor of the ATP Tour, the men's tennis association and Lexus is the title sponsor of the US Open tournament, held from Aug. 25 to Sept. 7 in New York. Automakers also endorse top professional players.

Forbes reports that Maria Sharapova, the No. 6-ranked player on the WTA Tour and the second highest earner in pro tennis, pulling in $26 million over the last 12 months, has a deal with Land Rover.

Meanwhile, Kia has named Rafael Nadal, who is the top-ranked ATP Tour player and who pulled in $18 million in the last 12 months, its global brand ambassador through 2011.

Mercedes-Benz is among the sponsors that helped his competitor, Roger Federer, pull in the largest earnings — $35 million — in the past 12 months.

Click Here for a slideshow of all the top tennis stars, and their sweet rides.