In a heartwarming exchange that has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts worldwide, Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and husband to tennis legend Serena Williams, extended a dinner invitation to WNBA star Caitlin Clark. This gesture came in response to Clark’s expressed desire to share a meal with Williams, highlighting the mutual admiration between these prominent figures in sports.
The interaction began when a fan shared a video clip on social media where Caitlin Clark, when asked which celebrity she would like to have dinner with, promptly named Serena Williams. Ohanian, known for his active engagement on social media and support for women’s sports, responded enthusiastically:
“C’mon now @CaitlinClark22 there’s an open invitation at our home!”
This invitation not only underscores the respect Ohanian and Williams have for Clark but also reflects the camaraderie and mutual support prevalent among athletes across different sports disciplines.
Caitlin Clark’s Stellar Rise in the WNBA
Caitlin Clark has been a transformative figure in women’s basketball. After a record-breaking collegiate career with the Iowa Hawkeyes, where she shattered numerous records and earned accolades, Clark declared for the WNBA draft. In 2024, she was selected as the first overall pick by the Indiana Fever. Her rookie season was nothing short of spectacular; she led the league in scoring, set multiple rookie records, and was unanimously named the WNBA Rookie of the Year. Her dynamic playing style and leadership on the court have significantly boosted the popularity of the WNBA, drawing in new fans and increasing viewership.
Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian: Champions of Women’s Sports
Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, has been a trailblazer in tennis and a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment in sports. Her influence extends beyond the tennis court; she has invested in various ventures aimed at promoting women’s sports and supporting female athletes. In March 2025, Williams became a part-owner of the Toronto Tempo, a new WNBA franchise set to debut in 2026, marking a significant milestone as the league’s first team based outside the United States.
Alexis Ohanian, an entrepreneur and investor, has consistently championed women’s sports. He was the lead investor in Angel City FC, a National Women’s Soccer League team, and has made substantial contributions to women’s basketball programs, including a notable donation to Virginia Women’s Basketball. Ohanian’s advocacy is driven by a belief in the immense potential and value of women’s sports, both culturally and economically.
A History of Mutual Respect
The dinner invitation is the latest development in a series of mutual acknowledgments between Clark and the Williams-Ohanian family. In 2024, during the ESPY Awards, Serena Williams humorously compared Clark to NBA legend Larry Bird, highlighting her exceptional skills and the excitement she brings to the sport. Clark, in turn, has expressed her admiration for Williams on multiple occasions, citing her as a role model and source of inspiration.
The Broader Impact on Women’s Sports
This interaction shines a spotlight on the growing prominence and recognition of women’s sports. The support and visibility provided by established figures like Williams and Ohanian play a crucial role in elevating the status of female athletes and encouraging investment in women’s sports leagues. Clark’s achievements and the subsequent support from prominent personalities underscore the shifting landscape towards greater equality and appreciation in the sports industry.
Looking Ahead
While it’s yet to be confirmed whether Caitlin Clark will take up the dinner invitation, the gesture itself has already resonated with fans and athletes alike. Such interactions foster a sense of community and solidarity among athletes, transcending individual sports and inspiring the next generation of female athletes to pursue excellence.
In conclusion, the exchange between Alexis Ohanian and Caitlin Clark is more than just a dinner invitation; it symbolizes the interconnectedness of the sports world and the collective effort to uplift women’s sports. As athletes continue to support and celebrate each other’s achievements, the future of women’s sports looks brighter than ever.
