How Sweet It Is: Federer Renews Endorsement Deal With Chocolate Maker Lindt

Switzerland-based chocolate maker Lindt & Sprungli has signed a multiyear extension of its partnership with Roger Federer that is "expected to net Federer more than" $20M as a brand ambassador, according to Kurt Badenhausen of FORBES. Lindt first signed Federer, a Swiss native, in '09 and becomes the latest sponsor of the 19-time Grand Slam winner "to extend its relationship with the tennis great beyond 10 years together." Other companies in that group include Nike, Rolex, Credit Suisse, Jura and Wilson. Federer's off-court earnings "are the highest in the world" at more than $50M annually. The Lindt extension comes after Federer earlier this year "added a rare new sponsor," agreeing to a multiyear deal" with Barilla pasta. Sources said that the Barilla deal "could net Federer as much as" $40M (FORBES.com, 12/12).