In a heartfelt moment on social media on July 9, Alexis Ohanian, husband of tennis icon Serena Williams, expressed immense pride after she referred to him as “the GOAT” of investing.
Serena praised Alexis during a public appearance, saying, “My husband Alexis Ohanian is I think the best VC investor there is… what he’s done for women’s sport… he started a whole movement of billions and billions of dollars.”
As Alexis shared the clip on X, he captioned it:
“When the GOAT calls you the GOAT…”
In the same clip, Serena continued: “for me to firsthand see what it takes to be great… having an opportunity to work with the best and be the best… it’s priceless.”
Alexis, moved by these remarks, quickly responded with humility. He emphasized that being married to one of the sport’s alltime legends offered him invaluable insight into excellence:
“S says I’m the best investor – not for seeding ro, rippling, or flock – but for helping to kick off a movement to back women’s sports – truth is, being married to the best teaches you a lot about what greatness actually looks like.”
Fueling a mission beyond titles and trophies
Alexis didn’t just stumble into supporting women’s sports; he committed capital, time, and influence to help build the infrastructure and visibility these athletes deserve.
As early as 2019, he spotted what he called “a tsunami” in women’s sports and chose to ride that wave through investments in teams like Angel City FC and events like the 776 Invitational.
Despite initial skepticism from peers, who warned him it would be unprofitable, his persistence vindicated his vision.
Angel City FC, purchased years ago for an estimated $1 million, is now valued at nearly $300 million, making it one of the world’s most valuable women’s sports franchises.
His work isn’t limited to soccer. Together with Serena, Alexis has backed Angel City FC, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Golf Club, and the WNBA’s Toronto Tempo team.
Serena said her investment in the Toronto franchise:
“This moment is not just about basketball… women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity.”
Why Ohanian’s drive matters
For Alexis, supporting women’s sports isn’t charity, it’s an investment in potential. He often references his experience as a “proud girl dad” and husband to a trailblazer to explain his motivations.
He’s also used his platform to support women’s collegiate athletics. In late 2024, he donated $1 million to the University of Virginia women’s basketball team and championed the program publicly, tweeting: “Women’s sports is just great. Period.”
His actions reinforce that his commitment is strategic, expansive, and driven by more than mere fanfare.
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