The world of sports has always been dominated by men, with their games and achievements taking center stage. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift towards promoting and investing in women’s sports. This has been evident in the sudden surge in valuation around women’s sports, which has taken many by surprise. But there is one man who is not shocked by this development – Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit.
In a recent interview, Ohanian expressed his unwavering faith and belief in the potential of women’s sports. He stated, “A lot of people are shocked by the sudden surge in valuation around women’s sports. Do you know who is definitely not shocked? Me.” These words clearly reflect his immense passion and commitment towards promoting women’s sports.
Ohanian’s interest in women’s sports is not a recent development. He has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports for years. In 2019, he stepped down from the board of Reddit to focus on his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital, which invests in startups, including those in the sports industry. One of the primary goals of Initialized Capital is to support and promote women’s sports.
Recently, Ohanian made headlines when he became an investor in Angel City, the newest addition to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Angel City is a Los Angeles-based team that is set to make its debut in the NWSL in 2022. Ohanian’s investment in Angel City is a testament to his commitment to promoting women’s sports and his belief in the potential of the team.
But Ohanian’s interest in women’s sports is not limited to the United States. He has now set his sights on the Women’s Super League (WSL) in England. Ohanian has become a part-owner of the WSL’s Chelsea FC, one of the top women’s football clubs in the world. This move has made him the first American investor in the WSL and has further solidified his position as a champion for women’s sports.
Ohanian’s investment in Chelsea FC is not just a financial one; it is a statement of his unwavering support for women’s sports. In a male-dominated industry like football, Ohanian’s involvement in the WSL is a significant step towards promoting gender equality and breaking barriers. It also sends a strong message to other investors and sports organizations that women’s sports are worth investing in.
The WSL has been gaining popularity in recent years, with top players from around the world joining the league. The addition of Ohanian as an investor will undoubtedly bring more attention and resources to the league, further elevating its status in the world of football. Ohanian’s involvement in the WSL is a significant milestone for women’s sports, and it is a step in the right direction towards achieving gender equality in sports.
Ohanian’s passion for promoting women’s sports goes beyond just investing in teams. He has been actively involved in advocating for equal pay for female athletes. In 2019, he joined forces with the US Women’s National Soccer Team in their fight for equal pay. Ohanian, along with his wife, tennis superstar Serena Williams, has been vocal about the gender pay gap in sports and has been using his platform to raise awareness and support for this cause.
In a world where women’s sports have often been overlooked and undervalued, Ohanian’s involvement and investment in women’s sports are a breath of fresh air. His actions have shown that he is not just a passive investor but a passionate advocate for gender equality in sports. Ohanian’s belief in the potential of women’s sports and his commitment to promoting them is a source of inspiration for many.
In conclusion, Alexis Ohanian’s investment in Angel City and Chelsea FC is a significant step towards promoting women’s sports. His unwavering faith and support for women’s sports have not only brought attention and resources to the industry but have also sent a powerful message to the world. Ohanian’s actions have shown that investing in women’s sports is not just a financial decision, but a statement of belief in the potential of female athletes. With Ohanian’s support and the growing interest in women’s sports, we can hope to see a more equal and inclusive sports industry in the future.