When Serena Williams, the tennis legend, and Alexis Ohanian, the Reddit co-founder, first crossed paths in 2015, no one could have predicted the whirlwind romance that would follow. From a chance meeting in Rome to building a family and supporting each other through life’s highs and lows, their love story is one for the books. Here’s a deep dive into how Serena and Alexis became one of the most inspiring power couples of our time.
The Meet-Cute: Breakfast in Rome
It all started in May 2015 at the Cavalieri Hotel in Rome. Serena, fresh off her Australian Open victory, was enjoying breakfast when Alexis Ohanian, a self-proclaimed non-tennis fan, sat down at the table next to her. In a move that could only be described as fate, Serena invited him to join her and her friends.
As Serena later told Vanity Fair, “This big guy comes and he just plops down at the table next to us, and I’m like, ‘Huh! All these tables and he’s sitting here?’” Little did she know, that “big guy” would become her future husband.
Their connection was instant, and Serena wasted no time inviting Alexis to watch her play at the French Open. What followed was a romantic first date in Paris, complete with visits to the Eiffel Tower and a zoo. Alexis, who had never watched a tennis match before meeting Serena, quickly became her biggest fan.
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The Proposal: Full Circle in Rome
Fast forward to December 2016, and Alexis pulled off one of the most thoughtful proposals in celebrity history. He recreated their first meeting by proposing at the same hotel in Rome where they first crossed paths. Even fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger was in on the surprise, helping Alexis plan the perfect moment.
Serena announced their engagement in true modern fashion—with a poem on Reddit. She wrote,
“I came home. A little late. Someone had a bag packed for me. And a carriage waited. Destination: Rome.”
Alexis, ever the tech mogul, tweeted,
“Thank you all for the kind words. Especially from all my Armenian brothers and sisters debating when they can claim Serena as Armenian.”
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The Wedding: A Star-Studded Affair
In November 2017, Serena and Alexis tied the knot in a lavish New Orleans wedding. The ceremony was attended by A-listers like Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and Eva Longoria. Just 11 weeks prior, the couple had welcomed their first child, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., making the celebration even more special.
The wedding was a testament to their love, blending Serena’s athletic prowess with Alexis’ tech-savvy charm. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and a whole lot of star power.
Parenthood: A New Chapter
Becoming parents was a life-changing experience for Serena and Alexis. In September 2017, they welcomed their daughter, Alexis Olympia. However, Serena’s journey to motherhood wasn’t without challenges. She later revealed that she nearly died after giving birth due to complications, including a pulmonary embolism. Her bravery in sharing her story brought attention to the disparities in maternal healthcare, especially for Black women.
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In August 2023, the couple expanded their family with the birth of their second daughter, Adira River Ohanian. The announcement came via a heartfelt TikTok video, with Serena captioning it, “Welcome my beautiful angel.” Alexis, ever the doting dad, wrote on Instagram, “I’m grateful to report our house is teaming with love: a happy & healthy newborn girl and happy & healthy mama.”
@serenaWelcome my beautiful angel ♬ original sound – Serenawilliams
Supporting Each Other Through Thick and Thin
One of the hallmarks of Serena and Alexis’ relationship is their unwavering support for one another. Whether it’s Alexis cheering Serena on from the stands at the U.S. Open or Serena backing Alexis’ entrepreneurial ventures, they’ve always been each other’s biggest fans.
In 2022, as Serena announced her “evolution” away from tennis, Alexis penned a touching tribute to her legacy.
“I’ve seen over the last 7 years how much y’all love my wife—what she means to so many, worldwide,” he wrote. “You simply cannot overstate the breadth and depth of influence she’s had on so many people.”
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The Secret to Their Success
So, what’s the secret to their lasting love? According to Alexis, it’s the little things. In a 2019 Glamour essay, he revealed their “simple Sunday tradition” of making pancakes together.
“You have to show up. You have to be supportive,” he wrote. “These are the things that matter.”
Serena, on the other hand, has spoken openly about the challenges of marriage, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and hard work. “Marriage is not bliss,” she once said. “But it can be if you work at it.”
A Love That Inspires
From their chance meeting in Rome to building a family and supporting each other’s dreams, Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian’s love story is a testament to the power of partnership. They’ve shown the world that love isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about showing up, being loyal, and celebrating each other’s successes.
As they continue to navigate parenthood and their respective careers, one thing is clear: Serena and Alexis are a match made in heaven. And we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds for this incredible duo.
