Alexis Ohanian, the tech entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Reddit and husband of tennis legend Serena Williams, has consistently championed women’s sports. His recent $1 million donation to the University of Virginia’s (UVA) women’s basketball program underscores his enduring support for female athletes and his deep connection to his alma mater. Ohanian’s philanthropic and professional endeavors reflect his commitment to fostering opportunities for women in sports, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
Supporting the Virginia Cavaliers Women’s Basketball Team
In December 2024, Ohanian made headlines with a historic $1 million donation to the Virginia Cavaliers women’s basketball program. This contribution, the largest in the program’s history, highlights his dedication to promoting equity and excellence in women’s athletics. On January 12, 2025, Ohanian attended the Cavaliers’ match against the Duke Blue Devils, showing his unwavering support for the team.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Ohanian shared his excitement and confidence in the Cavaliers, praising the program’s potential and reiterating his allegiance to UVA. His public advocacy for women’s sports is a continuation of his broader efforts to amplify female athletes and organizations.
A Lifelong Connection to UVA
Alexis Ohanian graduated from the University of Virginia in 2005 with a double major in history and business commerce from the McIntire School of Commerce. Reflecting on his college years, Ohanian credited UVA with inspiring his entrepreneurial spirit and playing a pivotal role in the creation of Reddit, the influential social media platform he co-founded.
“UVA taught me the value of persistence and innovation,” he shared. His time at the university fostered a mindset that would later propel him to success in the tech world and beyond.
Championing Women’s Sports Beyond UVA
Ohanian’s commitment to women’s sports extends far beyond the basketball court. As the majority stakeholder in Angel City FC, a team in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), he has invested heavily in promoting women’s soccer. Angel City FC, based in Los Angeles, has become a symbol of excellence and empowerment, attracting a diverse group of investors and fans.
In addition to soccer, Ohanian co-produced the reality series Offseason FC, which highlights the lives and journeys of professional athletes. He also organized Athlos NY, an all-women track-and-field event, through his venture capital firm, Seven Seven Six. These initiatives reflect his belief in the importance of visibility and opportunity for female athletes at every level.
Balancing Philanthropy and Family Life
At 41 years old, Alexis Ohanian balances his professional and philanthropic commitments with his role as a husband and father. Married to Serena Williams since 2017, the couple shares two daughters: Olympia, born in 2017, and Adira, born in 2023. Together, they embody a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values.
Ohanian’s net worth, estimated at $150 million, allows him to pursue philanthropic ventures and investments that align with his passions. His family’s influence is evident in his work, as he often credits Serena and Olympia for inspiring his advocacy for gender equity.
The Ripple Effect of Advocacy
Ohanian’s initiatives have a ripple effect, encouraging other high-profile individuals to invest in women’s sports and education. His donation to UVA’s women’s basketball program not only provides immediate financial resources but also sends a powerful message about the value of women’s athletics.
“Women’s sports deserve the same recognition and support as men’s,” he stated during his announcement. By backing programs like the Virginia Cavaliers, Ohanian hopes to inspire future generations of athletes and advocates.
The Legacy of a Visionary Entrepreneur
As a tech innovator and philanthropist, Alexis Ohanian’s influence extends across industries. Reddit, which he co-founded at the age of 22, remains one of the most visited websites globally, demonstrating the enduring impact of his early career decisions. His current ventures, including Seven Seven Six, focus on fostering innovation and social good, with a particular emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
Through his advocacy and investments, Ohanian is building a legacy that prioritizes equity, empowerment, and opportunity. His work with Angel City FC, UVA, and other organizations underscores his belief that systemic change begins with bold action.
A Future Built on Equity and Excellence
As Alexis Ohanian continues to champion women’s sports, his actions serve as a blueprint for meaningful advocacy. His dedication to the Virginia Cavaliers, Angel City FC, and initiatives like Athlos NY demonstrates a commitment to creating lasting change in how society views and supports female athletes.
For Ohanian, the journey is about more than wins and financial success. It’s about reshaping narratives, fostering community, and ensuring that future generations have the resources and opportunities they deserve. His impact, both as an entrepreneur and a philanthropist, reflects a vision for a more equitable world—a vision he continues to bring to life through every endeavor.