Alexis Ohanian is a name that instantly conjures images of two powerful identities: the co-founder of Reddit and the husband of tennis legend Serena Williams. But here’s where it gets fascinating: beyond these titles, Ohanian has quietly built an empire that spans tech, sports, and advocacy, particularly in the often-overlooked realm of women’s athletics. From launching tech-driven startups to owning women’s sports teams and spearheading Athlos, a star-studded women’s track-and-field initiative, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Yet, it’s his pivot from Silicon Valley darling to a vocal champion for gender equality in sports that’s raising eyebrows—and sparking conversations.
In a recent episode of The Circuit with Emily Chang, Ohanian reflected on his unconventional path. Back in 2005, he and Reddit co-founder Steve Huffman were part of the very first Y Combinator class, a program designed to turbocharge startups. And this is the part most people miss: at a time when startups were far from mainstream, Y Combinator saw the future before anyone else. “It was not normal to want to do a startup in 2005, and that was the genius of YC,” Ohanian noted. This foresight not only shaped Reddit’s success but also laid the groundwork for his future ventures.
Fast forward to today, and Ohanian’s focus on women’s sports is both bold and controversial. Here’s the bold part: he’s not just investing money—he’s investing in systemic change. Athlos, for instance, isn’t just a sports league; it’s a platform to challenge the gender pay gap and amplify female athletes’ voices. But this approach isn’t without its critics. Some argue that his celebrity status overshadows grassroots efforts, while others applaud his ability to bring much-needed attention to the cause. Here’s the question that’ll keep you thinking: Is Ohanian’s high-profile advocacy a game-changer for women’s sports, or does it risk overshadowing the very athletes he aims to uplift? Let’s discuss in the comments—because this conversation is far from over.