Couple goals? Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian certainly take the crown. Their supportive bond began with a chance meeting in Rome in 2015. Both were staying at the Cavalieri Hotel for separate events. Seated by the pool, Serena’s playful teasing sparked their first conversation. Their connection grew quickly, leading to a romantic date and a proposal! Alexis returned to their original Rome table to pop the question, making it a beautifully personal moment- a true testament to their unique love story. And if you think the romance ended there, think again!
The duo tied the knot in November 2017, just after welcoming daughter Alexis Olympia in September 2017, and later, Adira River in August 2023. Alexis’s unwavering support shines through his belief: “You have to show up. You have to be supportive,” he says.
Serena feels the same, saying he “doesn’t dim my light. He puts me in the light,” she acknowledges. “Marriage is not bliss. But it can be if you work at it,” showing how much she values their relationship. They don’t shy away from proving it!
On Monday, Serena shared an adorable Instagram carousel of them sitting on a park bench, sipping coffee, captioned “Date in the City.” The photos showed the 23-time GS winner in a beige tracksuit and sunglasses, coffee cup in hand, while Alexis snapped pictures from different angles. Isn’t it adorable how they keep the romance alive?
The couple often shares glimpses of their life. Last year, during the French Open, they posted about a beautiful dinner night. From quirky food combos to lip-smacking desserts and classic French Merlot, Alexis’s social media overflowed with joy. The Reddit co-founder even posted a selfie with Serena, delighting fans. “FANTASTIC date night with @serenawilliams. I thoroughly enjoyed your hidden kitchen for ants. MERCI @jeanimbert+ @Plaza_Athenee,” he wrote.
Their first date had a funny story that won Serena over. In her 2024 ESPN+ docuseries In The Arena, she revealed, “During dinner, he started talking about Iron Man and Marvel,” adding, “That’s the way to my heart.” Alexis, a self-proclaimed ‘genuine fan,’ shared, “This wasn’t just a superficial, ‘Hey, I’ve watched a few movies.’ This is, ‘I have deeply studied the text, and I have strong opinions about this lore.’”
Fun fact: Serena was the first to say “I love you” to Alexis- via a phone call!
It’s heartwarming to see them keep their love alive on social media. Whether sharing family moments with their girls or a simple dinner date, they always steal hearts. But speaking of their first date, did you know Serena didn’t show up alone?
Serena reveals she didn’t know Alexis’ “game” ahead of their first date
Last November, during a Spike Sessions video on Lingo, Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian shared amusing stories about their first date. Alexis revealed that Serena didn’t arrive solo-she brought “two chaperones” along: her agent and assistant! At that time, she was World No. 1 and was the reigning champion of two Grand Slams. She explained her caution simply: “Because I didn’t know you. And I didn’t know your game.” A smart move from a champion!
Serena was competing at the 2015 French Open when she invited Alexis to watch her match after some friendly conversation. She must have made quite an impression because, following her win at Roland Garros, Alexis flew to Paris to spend the day sightseeing with her! Serena said, “I didn’t know what you were about. I didn’t know anything, so I had to bring it back up,” referring to why she brought her agent and assistant along. Little did she realize she was meeting her future husband!
They also recalled their first meal together. Alexis recalled he had snails, which Serena remembered because she didn’t like them. He also had steak with fries. Serena ordered “French chicken with pomme frites,” and she couldn’t resist correcting Alexis’s pronunciation of “pomme frites.”
It’s incredible how their story unfolded from that cautious start. From guarded beginnings to romantic adventures in Paris, Serena and Alexis’ journey is full of charm. It’s clear they still enjoy reminiscing about those first moments as much as ever!
