Tennis icon Serena Williams is expanding her influence in the world of sports by joining the Toronto Tempo, the WNBA’s first Canadian franchise, as part of its ownership group.
The team, set to debut in 2026, announced the news on Monday, marking a significant milestone for women’s basketball.
Serena Williams Takes on a New Court
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, expressed her excitement about her new role:
“I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo. This is more than basketball—it’s about elevating women’s sports and recognizing their value. Women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity, and I’m excited to be a part of this historic journey.”
Her investment, pending league approval, underscores her commitment to increasing visibility and opportunities for female athletes.
Serena’s Role in the Toronto Tempo Franchise
Williams will work alongside Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, to shape the team’s identity.
In addition to her ownership stake, she will be involved in jersey design and exclusive merchandise collaborations, bringing her unique perspective to the brand.
Sharing the news on Instagram, Williams captioned a video featuring the WNBA logo:
“New court, new game. 🏀 I am incredibly excited to join the @torontotempo as the team’s newest owner.”
See her original post below.
Building a Legacy in Canada
The team’s president, Teresa Resch, spoke highly of Williams’ influence in the sports world:
“Serena is a trailblazer. She has redefined success in sports and business, and her dedication to empowering women is inspiring. We’re thrilled to have her on board.”
During a Q&A on the team’s social media, Williams emphasized her desire to support women’s sports:
“Sports have given me so much, and I want to ensure future generations of female athletes have the same opportunities. Being part of the Tempo allows me to contribute to that vision.”
She also highlighted her deep appreciation for Toronto’s culture, food, and sports fans, making the partnership even more meaningful.
What’s Next for the Toronto Tempo?
Last year, the Toronto Tempo unveiled its logo—a sleek, italicized “T” within a circle, symbolizing the five players on the court and the passion of the fans.
The team is set to make its highly anticipated debut in 2026 at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
With Serena Williams on board, the Toronto Tempo is not just entering the league—it’s setting the stage for a new era of women’s basketball.
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