Renowned for her exceptional career in tennis, Serena Williams is poised to receive another prestigious accolade. The former tennis champion has been chosen for the esteemed Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, an honor presented by Princess Leonor of Spain, heir to the Spanish throne. This annual award recognizes individuals and organizations worldwide for their significant achievements in various fields, including science, humanities, and public service.
Williams’ illustrious career features an extraordinary total of 73 singles titles, complemented by 23 doubles titles and two mixed doubles Grand Slam victories. She has also secured four Olympic gold medals and achieved the remarkable distinction of a career Golden Slam, making her selection for this award a fitting tribute to her legacy.
Award ceremony details
The award presentation is scheduled for October 24, 2025, at the iconic Campoamor Theater in Oviedo, Spain. Serena is expected to attend alongside her husband, Alexis Ohanian, and their two young daughters: Alexis Olympia, born on September 1, 2017, and Adira River, born on August 15, 2023. In addition to Serena’s athletic accomplishments, her husband’s entrepreneurial background is also noteworthy.
A glimpse into Alexis Ohanian’s background
The love story of Serena and Alexis began in 2015 during a chance encounter at the Cavalieri Hilton Hotel in Rome, where both were attending separate events. Alexis, whose family history is rooted in Armenian refugee heritage, grew up in Maryland. His diverse background includes a German mother and an Armenian father, contributing to a rich cultural heritage.
From an early age, Ohanian showed an inclination towards entrepreneurship. After attending the University of Virginia, he shifted his focus from computer science to a blend of business and history, ultimately leading him to co-found Reddit, an online platform that has become a staple of the internet.
Impact and advocacy
In 2006, Reddit was acquired by Condé Nast, with Ohanian remaining involved as a board member. His career took a significant turn when he stepped away from daily operations at Reddit in 2018, redirecting his efforts toward investing in various technology firms and initiatives. Notably, he championed women’s sports as the lead investor in the United States National Women’s Soccer League and established a venture capital firm named Seven Seven Six to foster technological innovation.
Personal milestones and advocacy work
The couple’s relationship blossomed after their initial meeting, leading to a romantic date in Paris during the French Open. Their shared interests, including a mutual love for Marvel comics, deepened their bond. In December 2016, Ohanian orchestrated a memorable proposal at the very table where they first crossed paths, solidifying their commitment to each other.
Following their wedding in, celebrated in New Orleans with a star-studded guest list, the couple embraced parenthood. Ohanian became an outspoken advocate for paternity leave, sharing his personal experience in an article for The New York Times after the birth of Alexis Olympia. He has actively promoted legislative measures for family leave, emphasizing the importance of supporting new parents.
The journey of Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian reflects their individual and collective achievements. As they prepare to celebrate yet another milestone with the Princess of Asturias Award, their story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of love, resilience, and dedication in both personal and professional spheres.
