TORONTO — Tennis legend Serena Williams is joining the Toronto Tempo's ownership group, the WNBA expansion team announced Monday. Williams, known as one of the greatest athletes of all time, expressed her excitement about being part of the first Canadian WNBA team.
"This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes," Williams stated. "I am excited to partner with Larry and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy." Her investment is pending final league approval, and she will work alongside Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, to help shape the team's direction.
Williams, who made her professional debut at the age of 14 during the 1995 Challenge Bell tournament in Quebec City, has had an illustrious career, winning 73 WTA singles titles, including 23 Grand Slams — the most titles won by any player in the open era. She also holds three Canadian Open titles.
"Serena is a champion. She’s the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible," stated Teresa Resch, president of the Toronto Tempo. "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."
Williams’ role within the team is poised to be influential. According to the team, she will actively participate in marketing efforts, including future jersey designs and merchandise collaborations. This commitment aligns well with her vision for uplifting women's sports and creating visible representation of female athletes across different platforms.
The Tempo's inaugural season is set to kick off at Toronto's Coca-Cola Coliseum in 2026, with plans for the team to also host regular-season games across Canada, embracing not just Toronto but extending to communities nationwide.
On joining the Toronto Tempo, Williams remarked, "I have always said women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity." This perspective is increasingly echoed across the sports industry, where the visibility and marketability of women's sports are surging.
Tanabaum highlighted Williams’ determination and work ethic, stating, "She’s earned every bit of her incredible success with hard work, tenacity, and determination in the face of countless challenges. She exemplifies the very best of what the Tempo stands for — we couldn’t be more honored to have Serena in our court."
This addition to the ownership group isn't Williams' first foray beyond tennis. She also holds minority stakes in several sports organizations, including the NFL's Miami Dolphins and the NWSL's Angel City FC. Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, has also championed women’s sports by donating millions to the women's basketball program at his alma mater, the University of Virginia.
The Toronto Tempo aims to solidify its identity as more than just another basketball team. They aspire to build a legacy rooted in empowerment and pride, championing the fundamental belief highlighted by Williams: women’s sports are not just worthy of investment; they represent significant potential both commercially and culturally.
With prominent athletes like Williams stepping up to lead the charge, the future seems promising for women’s sports. While her inclusion with the Tempo awaits the WNBA’s final approval, Williams’ involvement is already seen as pivotal, promising to bring visibility and innovation to the franchise.
With the Tempo team announcing its general manager earlier this year, there are high hopes as they prepare for the expansion draft. The Tempo will not only mark the presence of female athletes on the basketball court but aim to make meaningful contributions to their communities across Canada.
Williams’ announcement coincides with growing momentum around women's sports, correlatively aligned with International Women’s Day, adding depth to the announcement and heightening anticipation for the inaugural season. The collaboration embodies the drive for social change led by female figures, creating platforms for future generations of athletes.
Through all these initiatives, Williams is not just joining the ranks of sports ownership but is reshaping the conversations around women’s sports, emphasizing their undeniable value and potential.