Serena Williams Becomes Owner of Toronto Tempo: A Milestone for Women's Sports

Serena Williams Becomes a New Owner of the Toronto Tempo

In a groundbreaking move for women's sports, Serena Williams, renowned as one of the greatest athletes of all time, has secured a stake in the Toronto Tempo — the first-ever WNBA team based in Canada. This announcement marks a significant milestone not only for Williams but also for the entire landscape of women’s sports in the country. Williams expressed her enthusiasm stating, "I am thrilled to announce my ownership role in the first Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo." Her involvement goes beyond mere ownership; it signifies a commitment to showcasing the immense potential of female athletes.

Joining forces with Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, Williams sees this partnership as a unique opportunity to invest in women's athletics, which she has long championed as an incredible investment. She hopes to help shape the future of the franchise and work toward creating a legacy that uplifts women in sports. Williams’s journey in professional sports began in Canada back in 1995, and this new role aligns with her ongoing dedication to empowering female athletes.

Teresa Resch, President of the Tempo Basketball Club, stated, "Serena is a champion. She's the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible." This sentiment reflects the collective excitement surrounding Williams’s influential presence in the Canadian sports arena.

Her active role will include participating in the visual branding of the team, contributing to jersey designs, and collaborating on unique merchandise initiatives. Williams hopes to set forth opportunities that will inspire not just current athletes but also future generations.

Larry Tanenbaum emphasized Williams's exemplary dedication, noting, "She's earned every bit of her incredible success with hard work, tenacity, and determination in the face of countless challenges." As the Tempo gears up to begin its inaugural season in 2026 at the Coca-Cola Coliseum, Williams's contributions promise to enhance the experience and atmosphere surrounding the team.

The Toronto Tempo will kick off as the 14th franchise of the WNBA, expanding the league's footprint outside the United States and allowing Canadian fans to engage with a professional women's basketball team for the very first time. The anticipation surrounding the franchise is palpable, especially with the listing of Sephora Canada as its first founding partner. Under Tanenbaum’s leadership, known for his pivotal role in leading the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA championship in 2019, the Tempo aims to replicate that success within the WNBA landscape.

With Williams's investment pending final approval from the league, the basketball community eagerly awaits the exciting developments ahead. This collaboration not only brings together a celebrated athlete and a new team but also sets the tone for a shift towards recognizing and supporting women's sports at a pivotal time, coinciding with events leading up to International Women's Day.

As she steps into her role, Williams illustrates that commitment and passion for sports can transcend barriers and create a platform where women athletes can thrive. The Toronto Tempo is poised to create a legacy that resonates far beyond the hardwood, showcasing the power and capability of women in sports. The team's journey is just beginning, but with Williams at the helm, the possibilities are endless. Fans can look forward to more updates and developments on the franchise as they prepare for the upcoming season.