Williams joins investors' group awarded NWSL franchise

Serena Williams has made a notable impact in the sports industry by joining an all-women investors' group that acquired a franchise in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), the premier league for women's soccer in the United States. This initiative reflects a growing trend towards inclusivity and representation in sports ownership, particularly for women and people of color. The ownership group includes a diverse array of influential figures, such as actresses, media personalities, business leaders, and former members of the U.S. women's national soccer team, alongside Williams's eldest daughter. This collective effort aims to elevate women's sports and provide a platform for female athletes to thrive in a historically male-dominated environment. The franchise, which began play as Angel City FC, represents a significant step forward in promoting women's soccer and empowering female athletes. With Williams's involvement, the franchise not only benefits from her global recognition and advocacy for gender equality but also from the financial backing of her husband, Alexis Ohanian, who serves as the lead investor despite holding a minority stake. The establishment of this franchise is part of a broader movement to increase investment in women's sports, as evidenced by the success of Serena Ventures, which has raised over $110 million to support diverse entrepreneurs and initiatives. This investment in women's soccer is expected to inspire future generations of female athletes and contribute to the ongoing growth of women's sports in the U.S.