Sometime in 2010, barring the “game-changing” disasters that will befall this country if either of today’s candidates is elected, Tiger Woods will become the first sporting figure to earn $1 billion from his endeavors.  Formula One prodigy Lewis Hamilton may soon join him.

Hamilton, a 23-year-old Brit, burst into Formula One last year, narrowly losing the title on the last day of the season.  This year, despite a points deduction, Hamilton became the youngest driver ever to win the F1 World Title, edging Brazilian Felipe Massa by one point.

Not surprisingly, his success has been lucrative.  Hamilton has a five-year $120 million contract with McLaren, which could climb near $50 million per year when he renegotiates in 2012.  Hamilton already has a $31 million endorsement deal with Reebok and more deals in the offering.

Handsome, articulate, and precociously talented, he resembles Tiger in more than dollar signs.  Advertisers likewise view him as an interracial figure who can transcend ethnic and national boundaries.

Hamilton has set himself up well for the future, holing up with this doll in his luxury tax-haven apartment in Luins, Switzerland overlooking Lake Geneva.  Not bad for 23.

Fun Facts

Hamilton was named after Carl Lewis (before the national anthem).  His full name is Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton.

He won some dude in Peterborough, England almost $200,000.  The man, ten years ago when Hamilton was a go-kart driver, bet that he would win the F1 title before the age of 25.