Serena Williams, one of the most decorated athletes in history, is taking her influence beyond the tennis court by investing in the newly formed Toronto Tempo, the WNBA’s first Canadian franchise. The announcement, made on March 3, 2025, solidifies Williams’ ongoing commitment to elevating women’s sports and empowering female athletes.
A Champion’s Next Chapter in Sports Ownership
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, joins the ownership group alongside Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures. Her investment in the Toronto Tempo aligns with her long-standing advocacy for women’s sports as a viable and valuable business.
“I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo,” Williams said. “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes—I have always said that women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity.”
The Tempo, which will begin play in 2026 at Coca-Cola Coliseum, marks the WNBA’s first expansion outside of the United States. Williams’ ownership role will extend beyond finances—she will be involved in the team’s branding, jersey designs, and merchandising efforts, ensuring the franchise reflects her vision and commitment to excellence.
New court, new game 🏀
— Toronto Tempo (@TempoBasketball) March 3, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce that @SerenaWilliams – legendary tennis
pro – has joined the team as the newest owner of the Toronto Tempo. pic.twitter.com/kRPYNvdoya
Serena’s Growing Presence in Sports Ownership
Williams’ foray into team ownership is not new. In 2020, she and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, became investors in Angel City FC, a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team that has been a trailblazer in fan engagement and sponsorship success. The Los Angeles-based club has set attendance and revenue records, demonstrating the growing market for women’s sports.
Additionally, Williams has been involved in various investment ventures, including the launch of Serena Ventures, a firm dedicated to funding companies led by women and underrepresented founders. Her continued business moves underscore her mission to create lasting change for women in sports and beyond.
The Impact of Williams’ Involvement
Williams’ presence in the WNBA ownership ranks is a game-changer. She is not only a globally recognized athlete but also a role model for young girls and aspiring professionals in sports business. Her influence extends beyond branding—she brings a deep understanding of what it takes to build a legacy in sports.
Toronto Tempo President Teresa Resch acknowledged the significance of Williams joining the ownership group:
“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 that success to create opportunities for other women is inspiring.”
A New Era for the WNBA
Williams’ investment comes at a crucial time for the WNBA, which has seen a surge in popularity and expansion efforts. The addition of Toronto as the league’s 14th franchise represents a major step in growing the global reach of women’s basketball.
The Tempo will not only play home games in Toronto but also host regular-season matchups across Canada, introducing the league to a broader audience. As the WNBA continues to gain momentum, the involvement of high-profile investors like Williams further validates the league’s business potential.
What’s Next for the Toronto Tempo?
With Williams on board, the Toronto Tempo is poised to be more than just a new WNBA team—it has the potential to be a cultural and business powerhouse. Fans can already sign up for the season ticket waitlist, with further details about the team expected in the coming months.
Williams’ investment is still pending final league approval, but her involvement is already generating excitement. As she transitions from an athlete to an influential sports executive, one thing is clear: Serena Williams is still setting records, only this time, it’s in the boardroom.