Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian shares how Serena Williams initially advised against his women’s sports investments. From Angel City FC to Chelsea FC Women, Ohanian is redefining the game.
Ohanian’s Bold Entry into Women’s Sports
Alexis Ohanian, husband of tennis icon Serena Williams, has made significant investments in women’s sports despite her initial reservations. He explained that Serena’s own experiences made her aware of the challenges in this sector.
A Mindset for Emerging Opportunities
Speaking on *CBS Mornings*, Ohanian discussed his passion for untapped markets, citing past investments in Coinbase and MrBeast. He said he’s drawn to building where others fail to see potential.
“I have found something in women’s sports that is undeniably a result of seeing the greatest ever do it.” – Alexis Ohanian
Why Serena Warned Him
When Ohanian considered investing in a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team, Serena urged caution. She believed the market would be challenging due to her own career experiences. But Ohanian saw potential and pushed forward.
Launching Athlos and Supporting Track Stars
Ohanian’s latest project, Athlos, is an all-women’s track and field competition with a $500,000 prize pool. He aims to give athletes consistent visibility beyond the Olympics, where they usually receive their only major spotlight.
Major Wins in the Sports Business
In 2020, Ohanian became principal investor in Angel City FC, now generating $30 million annually through ticket sales and sponsorships. In May 2025, he acquired a 10% stake in Chelsea FC Women for £20 million.
A Personal Mission for His Daughters
The father of two girls, Olympia and Adira, says this is more than business—it’s about creating a better sports world for the next generation. Ohanian believes women’s sports are a “game-changing” investment opportunity.
