A growing number of professional athletes are joining OnlyFans, a platform known for its subscription-based model, to share exclusive content and engage directly with their audience. Unlike its reputation for adult content, athletes use OnlyFans to offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into their training, personal lives, and careers while generating additional income.
Stars like Olympic gymnast McKayla Maroney, tennis player Nick Kyrgios, and MMA fighter Paige VanZant have embraced the platform. Maroney shares workout routines and lifestyle content, while Kyrgios offers fans personal insights and tennis tips. VanZant, one of the first athletes to join, posts fitness tutorials and candid vlogs, reportedly earning more through OnlyFans than her UFC career.
The platform’s appeal lies in its flexibility—athletes set their own monthly subscription prices, typically ranging from $5 to $20, and retain up to 80% of the revenue. This direct-to-fan model allows them to bypass traditional media and sponsorship constraints, fostering authentic connections. For some, like VanZant, it’s a way to take control of their narrative and brand.
However, the move isn’t without controversy. OnlyFans’ association with adult content has raised eyebrows, and some athletes face scrutiny for their choice. Still, the platform’s growing acceptance among mainstream creators suggests a shift in how athletes monetize their fame.
As more sports stars join, OnlyFans is becoming a legitimate space for athletes to diversify income streams and build loyal fan bases, redefining how they engage in the digital age.