The Heartwarming Journey of Alexis Ohanian: A Devoted Father and Supportive Husband

In the world of sports and tech entrepreneurship, few stories are as heartwarming and inspiring as that of Alexis Ohanian, husband to tennis legend Serena Williams and father to their two daughters, Olympia and Adira. Ohanian has not only made a name for himself as the co-founder of Reddit and a successful venture capitalist but also as a devoted family man who consistently challenges societal norms about fatherhood and gender roles. His journey is a testament to the power of love, support, and the relentless pursuit of greatness, both in his professional endeavors and personal life.

On August 29th, 2022, a touching photo was taken at the US Open in New York, capturing Ohanian with his daughter Olympia. This image encapsulates the essence of Ohanian’s role as a father and a supportive husband. The couple, known for their strong values and dedication to family, usually refrains from celebrating birthdays due to religious reasons. However, they make exceptions for their children, ensuring that special moments like Olympia’s seventh birthday are celebrated with love and joy. Last year, Olympia enjoyed a delightful ‘caking’ session at a New York bakery, a memory that Ohanian proudly shared on social media, showcasing his daughter’s artistic talents and their close bond.

Ohanian’s commitment to his family extends beyond mere celebrations. He is a vocal advocate for the importance of appreciating and cherishing loved ones. In a recent social media post, he shared a simple yet profound six-word piece of advice: ‘Hold on to your loved ones.’ This sentiment resonates deeply with many, reflecting Ohanian’s belief in the significance of family and the irreplaceable value of time spent together. His actions speak louder than words; he took a 16-week paternity leave following Olympia’s birth in 2017, challenging traditional gender roles and setting a powerful example for other fathers.

His dedication to his family is further highlighted by his efforts to ensure that his children grow up in a loving and supportive environment. Ohanian often shares glimpses of their family life on social media, including moments of him teaching Olympia to paint or encouraging her to say ‘mama’ as her first word. These small yet significant actions demonstrate his deep love and commitment to nurturing his children’s growth and happiness. His younger daughter, Adira, who recently took her first steps, is already being embraced into this warm and affectionate family dynamic.

Ohanian’s journey is not just about being a present and loving father; it is also about being a supportive and proud husband. He frequently praises Serena Williams, both for her incredible achievements on the court and her role as a mother. Ohanian has often referred to her as the ‘GOAT off the court,’ a testament to his unwavering admiration and respect for her. This mutual support and love are evident in their public appearances, such as at the 2024 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, where the family attended together, radiating unity and strength.

One of the most compelling aspects of Ohanian’s story is his decision to step down from Reddit’s board in June 2020. Citing the platform’s lenient stance on hate speech, he urged for the appointment of a black individual to fill his seat. This move was not only a stand against discrimination but also a reflection of his values and commitment to creating a better world for his daughters. Following his departure, he founded the venture capital firm 776, named after the year of the first Olympic games in Olympia, Greece. This choice was influenced by his wife, Serena, who suggested it as a way to avoid potential jealousy if they had more children.

The significance of the name 776 goes beyond its historical roots. It embodies the spirit of perseverance and striving for greatness, qualities that Ohanian hopes to instill in his children and the entrepreneurs he supports. In an Instagram video, he shared the story of a cook who competed and won a footrace event in the first ancient Olympic games after finishing his shift, highlighting the importance of never giving up. This ethos is at the core of 776’s mission, which focuses on investing in the next generation of tech entrepreneurs and promoting gender equality in sports.

Ohanian’s passion for women’s sports is evident in his investments and initiatives. At the Business of Women’s Sports Conference in New York, he announced that 776 would sponsor a women-only track and field event, Athlos NYC, with a $60,000 prize for the winner. This event aims to elevate the profile of women athletes and create a more equitable sporting landscape. Ohanian’s motivation for these investments is deeply personal; his love for his daughter Olympia and his desire to create opportunities for underpaid athletes drive his decisions.

Alongside his business ventures, Ohanian is also a published author and an advocate for necessary changes in paternity leave policies. His collaboration with Dove Men+Care to launch a fund facilitating paternity leave for fathers is a significant step towards challenging traditional norms and supporting working parents. His own experience of losing his mother to cancer and starting Reddit during her diagnosis has profoundly shaped his views on fatherhood and the importance of being present for his children.

Ohanian’s relationship with his daughter Olympia is particularly special. He often credits her for helping him become a better person and father. In various interviews, he has shared his initial fears of fatherhood and how holding his baby for the first time was a humbling experience. Even during work trips, he ensures that his family is always on his mind, as seen when he bought a pink kimono for Olympia while traveling. These gestures, though small, reflect his deep love and constant consideration for his family.

The partnership between Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian is truly inspirational. Their mutual support, respect, and love are the foundation of their family and professional successes. Together, they co-own the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club, Angel City F.C., with Olympia being the youngest co-owner in professional sports at the age of five. This move not only highlights their commitment to promoting women’s sports but also sets a powerful example for their daughters about the importance of pursuing one’s passions and making a positive impact.

Ohanian’s story is a beautiful blend of personal and professional triumphs, driven by his love for his family and his desire to make a difference in the world. His journey from co-founding Reddit to becoming a devoted father and supportive husband is a testament to his character and values. Through his actions and initiatives, he continues to challenge societal norms, promote gender equality, and inspire future generations. The legacy he is building, both through his venture capital firm 776 and his family, is one of love, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.

In conclusion, Alexis Ohanian’s life is a powerful narrative of love, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. His role as a father, husband, and entrepreneur showcases the profound impact of prioritizing family and challenging traditional norms. As he continues to support his wife Serena Williams, nurture his daughters Olympia and Adira, and invest in the future of women’s sports, Ohanian remains an inspiring figure. His story is a reminder that true success is measured not just by professional achievements but by the love and support we give to those who matter most.