What happens when a tech visionary meets a global sports icon? For Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, and Serena Williams, one of the greatest athletes of all time, their unexpected love story shows that sometimes, opposites truly do attract. From a chance meeting in Rome to a fairy-tale wedding that took the world by surprise, their journey together is a reminder that love doesn’t follow a script—it writes its own.

Born on April 24th, 1983, in Brooklyn, New York, Alexis Ohanian’s roots are steeped in resilience and history. His paternal grandparents survived the Armenian genocide, while his mother, Ank, immigrated from Germany. Raised in a family that valued hard work, Alexis was their only child, the apple of their eye. As a child, he was fascinated by technology—tinkering with computers and exploring the digital world from an early age. His first computer, a 486SX, was his playground, sparking his interest in building something bigger than himself.

Though Alexis initially thought he would become a lawyer, his path took a sharp turn when he had a life-changing epiphany in a Waffle House in Virginia. After walking out of the LSAT, he knew he wanted to build companies, not argue cases. This was the turning point where he decided to chase his entrepreneurial dreams. At the University of Virginia, he met Steve Huffman, his future co-founder. Together, they pitched their first startup idea, my mobile menu, to Y Combinator. While that idea didn’t take off, the feedback they received led to the creation of Reddit—a site that would become the heartbeat of the internet.

In 2005, Reddit joined Y Combinator’s inaugural startup batch, and by 2006, it was sold for millions, propelling Alexis into the world of tech stardom. But even as he built his empire, Alexis always had a deeper sense of purpose. He became an investor, philanthropist, and activist, using his platform to champion causes like net neutrality and digital freedom. His activism even led him to step down from Reddit’s board in 2020 to make room for a Black candidate, symbolizing his dedication to social justice and equality.

But Alexis is much more than a tech mogul. In 2020, he led a group that secured an NWSL franchise, Angel City FC, aimed at promoting women’s sports. In 2025, he bought a 10% stake in Chelsea Women FC, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting women in athletics. Yet, amid all his business ventures, Alexis’ proudest role is as a husband and father.

In 2015, Alexis met Serena Williams, and their connection was instant. From that moment, their worlds—one built on tech, the other on sports—came together. Their engagement in 2016, and subsequent wedding in New Orleans in 2017, became one of the most talked-about events of the year, attended by stars like Beyoncé and Kim Kardashian. That same year, their daughter, Alexis Olympia, was born, followed by their second daughter, Adira River, in 2023.

Through it all, Alexis has been a proud advocate for family and equality. After nearly losing Serena during childbirth, he became an outspoken advocate for paid family leave, using his platform to push for national change. His journey with Serena has reshaped his view of success. Watching Serena compete has shown him that true success isn’t just about making money; it’s about making a difference.

Alexis may have co-founded Reddit, but his greatest creation is the life he’s building—one where family, integrity, and impact take center stage. With a net worth of $150 million as of 2024, Alexis continues to shape the future, investing in climate startups and fighting for equality. But his quiet, values-driven approach is what truly sets him apart from other tech giants.

So, is Alexis Ohanian underrated in the tech world, or is it his unique combination of humility, activism, and family values that makes him so special? Whatever the answer, one thing is clear—Alexis has built more than just companies; he’s built a legacy. And in the end, that’s what matters most.