Is OnlyFans the new side hustle among sporting figures? From Renee Gracie to Arina Rodionova, athletes cashing in on fame beyond sports

Time of India

2 days ago

OnlyFans, once known exclusively as a site for sexual content, has grown into a global sensation, and influencers aren't the only ones benefiting. Athletes are increasingly using the subscription-based service to communicate with fans and earn money off the field. Teen online sensation Lil Tay, nicknamed 'the youngest flexer of the century,' recently claimed to have generated nearly $1 million in just three hours after opening her OnlyFans account, re-igniting interest in the platform.
Is OnlyFans an adult platform?
While OnlyFans is frequently linked with explicit content, it is not entirely adult-oriented. It's a dynamic creator platform where users may upload exercise routines, music, behind-the-scenes content, and even explicit content if they choose. Many creators, especially athletes, use it to offer exclusive fan connections and monetise content beyond nudity.
From medals to monetization: Athletes on OnlyFans
With traditional sponsorships and prize money sometimes falling short, a number of athletes across disciplines are turning to OnlyFans to diversify their revenue and stay connected with fans.
Liz Cambage
The Australian basketball star is one of OnlyFans' most successful athlete developers. She is well-known for her power on the court, and she exudes the same confidence online. Cambage allegedly makes a good living from the site, demonstrating the financial value of combining sporting renown with digital enterprise.
Renee Gracie
The former Supercars driver has found a new side hustle on OnlyFans. After leaving motorsports, she used the site to convey everything from racing nostalgia to personal lifestyle updates. Her move into this new sector sparked both criticism and interest, but Gracie has stayed unwavering in her decision.
Jack Laugher
The British diver, a three-time Olympic medalist, shocked fans when he announced his decision to join OnlyFans. While his work avoids explicit nudity, he is candid about using the site to boost his income.
Alysha Newman
The Canadian pole vaulter gives her followers a more personal insight into her life using OnlyFans. She is well-known for her athleticism and strength on the track, and now offers training routines, lifestyle moments, and unique content in the platform.
Robbie Manson
The New Zealand rowing champion is well-known for his creative approach on OnlyFans. He uses the site to share appropriate nude and semi-nude photos that promote body positivity and creative self-expression.
Pearl Gonzalez
The former UFC fighter and combat sports athlete, has developed a digital fanbase with her OnlyFans programming. She utilizes it to give personal updates, behind-the-scenes looks at her training routine, and exclusive photos highlighting her strength and personality.
Arina Rodionova
The Australian tennis player who speaks her mind, added another unexpected chapter to her life by joining OnlyFans. Rodionova's content shows her outspoken personality and willingness to flout the standard in professional athletics.
Matthew Mitcham
The Australian athlete became the first out gay Olympic gold champion. Today, he communicates with admirers via OnlyFans, where he posts semi-frontal nude photographs with artistic flair. Mitcham considers it an extension of self-expression that combines vulnerability, confidence, and empowerment.
Elise Christie
After retiring from competition, British speed skater Elise Christie resorted to OnlyFans for financial help and to stay in touch with her devoted fan group. She's been vocal about how the platform helped her find stability amid a difficult transition out of professional sports.
Timo Barthel
The German diver joined OnlyFans to engage with supporters more directly. As a high-level athlete, he posts fitness information, life updates, and more to help supplement his income.
Lisa Buckwitz
The Olympic bobsleigh gold champion posted a clear statement on OnlyFans: no nudity. Instead, her profile includes exclusive details about her everyday life, exercise regimens, and behind-the-scenes material, allowing fans to see a more relaxed and personal side of a great athlete.