It doesn't have anything to do with talent, at least not directly. It is 100% pure from concentrate economics. It's the same reason female models are paid more than male models. People pay money, attention (TV), and buy products that support the female model market, and not as many do to support the male model market.

If you want to see female athletes paid more, go to their games, buy t-shirts, et cetera.

Personally, I'd like to see all athletes paid less, they don't deserve what they get.

mcSey: You'll have a hard time convincing me that golf, bowling, gymnastics, and figure skating are actually sports. They're games.