How Alexis Ohanian Built His Fortune Before Marrying Serena Williams

Rich & Famous July 19, 2026

Alexis Ohanian is widely recognized as Serena Williams’ husband, but his business success started years before their relationship began. Best known as the co-founder of Reddit, Alexis turned an early startup idea into the foundation of a thriving career in technology and investing.

Over the years, he expanded into venture capital, sports ownership, and advocacy, building a financial portfolio that reaches far beyond social media.

Who Is Alexis Ohanian?

Instagram | alexisohanian | Tech founder Alexis Ohanian and tennis star Serena Williams married in 2017 and have two daughters together.

Alexis Ohanian married tennis legend Serena Williams in November 2017. The couple first crossed paths at a hotel in Rome in 2015 before beginning their relationship. They became engaged in December 2016 and welcomed their first daughter, Olympia, in September 2017, only weeks before their wedding. In 2023, their family grew with the birth of their second daughter, Adira.

Long before becoming part of one of sports’ most recognized couples, Alexis focused on entrepreneurship. He studied commerce and history at the University of Virginia. After graduation, he teamed up with his college friend Steve Huffman to launch Reddit in 2005 through the startup accelerator Y Combinator.

Within a year, the platform was acquired by Condé Nast, marking the first major milestone in his business career. Reddit has since grown into one of the world’s leading online discussion platforms.

Outside of business, Alexis is also known for supporting paid family leave initiatives and promoting women’s sports.

How Alexis Ohanian Made His Money

Reddit introduced Alexis to the tech industry, but it was only the beginning of his financial success. After the platform’s sale, he shifted attention toward venture capital investing, identifying promising startups at an early stage.

He co-founded Initialized Capital, an investment firm that backed companies including Coinbase, Instacart, Opendoor, and Flexport before they became major businesses. Later, he launched Seven Seven Six, another venture capital firm that focuses on technology startups with long-term growth potential.

His investment strategy has played a significant role in expanding his wealth while building a strong reputation in the startup community.

Alexis Ohanian speaking at a Reddit event

Instagram | @thesmallbusinessexpo | Alexis Ohanian co-founded Reddit, and the platform’s early success launched his career as a tech entrepreneur and investor.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Alexis Ohanian has an estimated net worth of $150 million. His earnings come from several business ventures rather than a single source.

Beyond venture capital, Alexis has invested in cryptocurrency, media businesses, and professional sports. He became a founding control owner of Angel City FC in the National Women’s Soccer League and later purchased a stake in Chelsea Women. These investments reflect his continued interest in supporting women’s athletics while expanding his business portfolio.

How Reddit Changed His Career

Launching Reddit in 2005 gave Alexis Ohanian the opportunity to enter the technology industry at a young age. Selling the company to Condé Nast just one year later provided the financial backing to pursue larger investment opportunities.

Instead of relying on Reddit’s success alone, he focused on funding innovative startups and building businesses with long-term value. This approach allowed him to grow his fortune through multiple industries rather than depending on one company.

Alexis Ohanian’s career reflects years of business planning, strategic investing, and entrepreneurship that began well before his marriage to Serena Williams. From co-founding Reddit to launching successful venture capital firms and investing in women’s sports, he has built a diverse career across technology and professional athletics.

His estimated $150 million net worth highlights the impact of smart investments, early-stage startup funding, and a willingness to expand into new industries over time.