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Serena Williams has joined the ownership group of Toronto Tempo, Canada’s first-ever WNBA team, marking another major investment in women’s sports, Forbes reported.
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, joins an ownership group led by Larry Tanenbaum, Chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures and a key figure in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.
The Toronto Tempo is set to become the WNBA’s 14th franchise and will debut in 2026 as part of the league’s Eastern Conference.
The team will play home games at Coca-Cola Coliseum and plans to host regular-season matches across Canada, making it the first WNBA team outside the United States.
Expressing her excitement, Williams said, “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes. Women’s sports are an incredible investment opportunity.” She also emphasized her enthusiasm for partnering with Tanenbaum and contributing to the development of the new franchise.
In addition to investing, Williams will play an active role in shaping the team’s brand, contributing to jersey designs and merchandise collaborations, according to the Toronto Tempo. Canada holds a special place in her career, as she made her professional tennis debut there in 1995 before becoming one of the sport’s most decorated players.
Tempo Basketball Club President Teresa Resch praised Williams’ involvement, calling her “the greatest athlete of all time” and highlighting her influence on women’s sports and business. The announcement coincides with the lead-up to International Women’s Day.
The WNBA’s expansion reflects the league’s growing popularity, record-breaking attendance, and increasing investment in women’s basketball. Alongside Toronto Tempo, the Golden State Valkyries will debut in 2025, followed by a Portland franchise in 2026, marking the league’s largest expansion in nearly two decades.
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