🏈 Alexis Ohanian & Serena Williams Amongst Group Of Investors Looking To Invest In Pro Flag Football Leagues For Men & Women

Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and prominent tech entrepreneur, has recently submitted a bid to invest in the NFL's forthcoming professional flag football leagues for both men and women. This initiative, confirmed by an NFL spokesperson, reflects Ohanian's ongoing commitment to advancing sports ventures, particularly those emphasizing inclusivity and innovation.

The NFL's exploration into professional flag football aligns with its broader strategy to diversify the sport and engage a wider audience. Commissioner Roger Goodell highlighted the league's proactive approach, noting significant interest from players and investors. He emphasized the potential of women's sports, stating, "This is something that we've been working on for several months... there's a tremendous amount of interest from players, from investors, to people who recognize, particularly, that women's sports are in a place where it's real and it's something we all want to be part of." 

Ohanian's investment portfolio demonstrates a consistent focus on innovative sports ventures. He has previously invested in Fan Controlled Football (FCF), a league that integrates digital interactivity by allowing fans to call plays in real-time. This venture attracted backing from various professional athletes and investors, including Chad Johnson, Marshawn Lynch, and Richard Sherman.

In the realm of women's sports, Ohanian has been a pivotal figure. He co-founded Angel City FC, a National Women's Soccer League team, which has seen its valuation soar to approximately $300 million within a few years. Ohanian's vision for women's sports franchises reaching billion-dollar valuations underscores his belief in their substantial growth potential.

The NFL's initiative to establish professional flag football leagues has garnered widespread interest, with ten companies reportedly submitting bids to operate these leagues. The NFL plans to support the leagues by selling media rights once they are operational, aiming to capitalize on flag football's inclusion in the 2028 Olympics.

Ohanian's bid, alongside his wife Serena Williams, to invest in the NFL's flag football venture reflects their shared commitment to diversifying and expanding the sports landscape. Williams, a tennis icon, has built a substantial empire through various ventures and investments, further exemplifying the couple's dedication to fostering growth and innovation in sports.

As the NFL progresses with its plans, the involvement of high-profile investors like Ohanian and Williams could significantly influence the development and success of professional flag football, potentially setting new standards for inclusivity and engagement in the sport.