Serena Williams has announced her ownership role in the Toronto Tempo, the first Canadian franchise in the WNBA. The team is set to begin play in the 2026 season and Williams will be partnering with Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures for the Tempo.
Williams expressed her excitement about this new venture, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the value and potential of female athletes. She believes that women's sports present a significant investment opportunity and is looking forward to creating a legacy with the Toronto Tempo.
As one of the greatest tennis players in history, Williams will not only be an owner but will also play an active role in designing the team's future jerseys. Her professional tennis career, which began at the age of 14 in Canada in 1995, has been illustrious, with 23 Grand Slam singles titles to her name.
Tempo President Teresa Resch praised Williams as a champion and highlighted her impact on the team and the country. Williams joins a prestigious list of former pro athletes who have become WNBA team owners, including Magic Johnson, Tom Brady, Dwyane Wade, and Renee Montgomery.
Aside from her ownership in the Toronto Tempo, Williams also has stakes in the Angel City FC women's soccer team, the Miami Dolphins, and TGL's Los Angeles Golf Club. Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, has also made significant contributions to women's sports, having donated millions of dollars to Virginia's women's basketball program last year.
Williams' involvement in the Toronto Tempo ownership group marks a significant moment in the WNBA's history, further solidifying the league's position as a platform for empowering female athletes and creating opportunities for women in sports and beyond.
