Serena Williams, an undisputed icon of tennis and a formidable entrepreneur, has navigated her personal life with the same grace and power she exhibits on the court. While her professional achievements have consistently made headlines, her journey to finding love has been a quieter, yet equally compelling, narrative. From high-profile romances to a deeply cherished marriage, Williams' romantic history reflects a woman who prioritizes connection and partnership, ultimately finding her match in a world often focused on individual stardom.
In the mid-2000s, as her career soared, Serena was linked to various figures, though many of these early connections remained largely speculative. Among the more prominent early rumors, she was reportedly involved with actor Jackie Long around 2007, followed by brief links to NBA player Amar'e Stoudemire in 2010 and even fellow tennis player Grigor Dimitrov around 2012. These relationships were often fleeting and seldom officially confirmed, typical of the intense media scrutiny surrounding a global superstar.
One of her most publicly acknowledged relationships was with Grammy-winning rapper Common (Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr.). The couple dated from 2007 to 2010, often appearing together at events and speaking fondly of each other in interviews. Their romance captured significant media attention, with both artists acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a relationship amidst demanding careers. Common later reflected that their mutual busy schedules ultimately contributed to their amicable split.
Following her relationship with Common, Serena was widely reported to be in a romantic relationship with her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou. Their professional partnership began in 2012, and their personal connection quickly became a subject of public interest. While neither publicly confirmed the romance, they were frequently photographed together in intimate settings, and their close bond was evident for several years, reportedly lasting until around 2015. This period marked a significant phase in her career, with Mouratoglou credited for helping her achieve further Grand Slam success.
In 2015, rumors briefly swirled about a potential romance between Serena and Canadian rapper Drake. The two were seen together on several occasions, sparking intense speculation among fans and the media. However, their connection appeared to be more of a casual friendship or brief dalliance rather than a serious, long-term commitment, and the rumors eventually subsided without official confirmation from either party.
The turning point in Serena's romantic life came in May 2015 when she serendipitously met Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian at a hotel in Rome. Their initial encounter was casual, but they soon began dating, keeping their burgeoning relationship private for several months. Ohanian, a prominent figure in the tech world, proved to be a grounding and supportive presence in her life, a stark contrast to some of her more public past relationships.
Their relationship blossomed away from the immediate glare of the public eye. In December 2016, Ohanian surprised Serena with a romantic proposal in Rome, the city where they first met, which she announced on Reddit with a poem. This engagement marked a new chapter for the tennis legend, signaling a serious commitment to building a family.
In April 2017, Serena accidentally revealed her pregnancy on Snapchat, a joyous surprise that quickly became global news. She continued to play tennis while pregnant, a testament to her incredible athleticism and determination. Their first child, a daughter named Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., was born on September 1, 2017, bringing immense joy to the couple.
Just over two months after Olympia's birth, Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian exchanged vows in a star-studded wedding ceremony in New Orleans on November 16, 2017. The lavish event was attended by numerous celebrities and marked the official union of the sports and tech power couple. Their marriage has been characterized by mutual admiration, public displays of affection, and unwavering support for each other's endeavors.
Alexis Ohanian has consistently been Serena's biggest cheerleader, often seen courtside during her matches and actively promoting her ventures on social media. The couple frequently shares glimpses into their family life, showcasing their dedication to parenthood and their strong partnership. Their bond exemplifies a modern relationship built on shared values, respect, and a deep understanding of each other's demanding careers.
In August 2023, the family grew with the arrival of their second daughter, Adira River Ohanian, further solidifying their family unit. Serena Williams' romantic journey, from high-profile dating to a deeply committed marriage, reflects her evolution as a person. She has found a partner who not only loves and supports her unconditionally but also celebrates her immense success, creating a powerful and inspiring partnership that continues to thrive in the public eye.