Alexis Ohanian, the tech mogul married to tennis icon Serena Williams, is making waves beyond the boardroom with a heartwarming move that’s got the sports world talking. On March 26, Ohanian stepped up for an 11-year-old track and field prodigy, Rhea Bullos from the Philippines, promising to outfit her with all the gear she needs for a full season. This noble gesture didn’t just catch fans’ eyes-it earned a big thumbs-up from ATP legend Boris Becker, who chimed in with a simple yet powerful “Wow” on X.
Rhea’s story first tugged at heartstrings back in 2019 when she went viral for racing barefoot at a local meet, wrapping her feet in bandages because she couldn’t afford proper shoes. Fast forward to 2025, and Ohanian caught wind of her grit via X posts buzzing about her journey.
“Someone please put me / @athlos team in touch with Rhea’s family,” he tweeted, per EssentiallySports, before vowing, “I’m gonna personally buy her all the gear she needs for a season.” It’s a slam-dunk move from a guy who’s all about lifting up women’s sports-think his Athlos track event or his stake in Angel City FC.
Why Boris Becker loves Alexis Ohanian’s move for 11YO athlete
Becker, a six-time Grand Slam champ, wasn’t the only one impressed. X lit up with fans cheering Ohanian’s play. “This is why Alexis is a legend off the court,” one user posted, while another gushed, “Rhea’s about to run circles around everyone with that gear!” Ohanian’s no stranger to these acts-last year, he helped U.S. Olympian Veronica Fraley cover rent before the Paris Games, proving he’s got a knack for spotting talent in need.
The gesture ties into his bigger mission. Through Athlos, his women’s-only track meet that smashed records with a $663,000 prize pool in 2024, Ohanian’s pushing to give female athletes the spotlight they deserve. Rhea, now training with dreams of global tracks, fits right into that vision. “It’s about showing these young stars they’re worth it,” he’s said in past interviews about his ventures, per Sportskeeda. With Serena by his side-herself a 23-time Major winner-he’s got the cred to back it up.
Ohanian’s move isn’t just gear-it’s a signal to Rhea and kids like her that someone’s watching, ready to help them sprint toward their goals. Becker’s “Wow” says it all: this is a power play with heart, and it’s got the sports community rooting loud.
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