Serena Williams is joining the ownership group of the WNBA’s first Canadian franchise, the Toronto Tempo, the team announced Monday. This marks yet another significant investment for the tennis legend, who expressed her excitement about the venture and the opportunity to uplift female athletes.
“I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo,” said Williams. “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes. I have always said women's sports are an incredible investment opportunity.”
Williams will partner with Larry Tanenbaum, the Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, as they prepare for the team’s inaugural season slated for 2026. Williams, who has made history as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, will also play an active role in future jersey designs and merchandise collaborations for the team, adding her unique flair to the franchise.
With 23 Grand Slam singles titles to her name, Williams is celebrated not just for her achievements on the court but also for her impact off it. “Serena is a champion,” remarked Tempo President Teresa Resch. “She’s the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible. She’s set the bar for women in sport, business and the world, and her commitment to using her success to create opportunities for other women is inspiring.”
This investment aligns with celebrations leading up to International Women’s Day on March 8, where the focus on women's accomplishments across all fields becomes particularly poignant. Williams' foresight recognizes how women’s sports hold untapped potential for growth and investment, paving the way for the future
Williams isn’t the only former pro athlete entering the WNBA ownership ranks; notable figures such as Magic Johnson, Tom Brady, Dwyane Wade, and Renee Montgomery have already made their mark as owners of various teams. This trend reflects the growing recognition of the women's league as not only competitive but also commercially viable.
Besides her stake in the Toronto Tempo, this isn’t the first venture for Williams within the ownership domain. She also holds ownership within Angel City FC, the women’s soccer team based in Los Angeles, alongside minority stakes in the Miami Dolphins and the upcoming TGL golf league, which is set to revolutionize virtual golf.
The Toronto Tempo's upcoming debut, combined with Williams' leadership, emphasizes the next chapter for women’s sports, as ownership from prominent athletes becomes more common, engendering hope for broader interest and attendance at games. The Tempo will create excitement as they prepare for their first game on the WNBA stage.
The official announcement came through various channels, including social media, where the team shared vibrant visuals celebrating this significant milestone with fans. “New court, new game 🏀,” they posted, reinforcing their readiness for the future and building anticipation for the franchise.
Williams' husband, Alexis Ohanian, has also demonstrated his commitment to women's sports through significant financial contributions, such as his donations to Virginia’s women’s basketball program last year. Their joint efforts illuminate their dedication to empowering female athletes through both support and visible roles within sports.
The Toronto Tempo's formation not only broadens the scope of women's professional basketball but also elevates the narrative around female athletes' capabilities and achievements. For Williams, this investment stands as yet another step toward creating more opportunities and representation for women in sports, business, and beyond.
While the franchise awaits final approval from the league, momentum builds as Williams prepares to channel her experience and passion for sports as part of this new venture. The anticipation for the Toronto Tempo is already palpable, setting the stage for what promises to be not just another team, but rather, a movement aimed at changing the conversation around women’s sports.
With plans for community engagement and showcasing local talent, the Toronto Tempo aims to solidify its role within the Canadian sport scene, celebrating not only basketball but also the empowerment of women globally.