Trailblazers in Sports and Business
Venus and Serena Williams shattered glass ceilings when they became the first Black women to secure a minority stake in an NFL team – the Miami Dolphins in 2009.
This historic move not only reflected the team’s commitment to diversity but also showcased the sisters’ business acumen beyond their legendary tennis careers.
“A Huge Honor” – Sisters Join Dolphins Ownership
“I am honored to be a partner in the Miami Dolphins franchise and thankful to owner Stephen Ross for allowing Serena and I to be part of Miami Dolphins history,” Venus expressed her excitement at the time.
Serena echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I am so excited to be part of such a renowned organization. Having spent so much of my childhood in the area, being involved with a staple of Miami culture is a huge honor.”
Stephen Ross, the principal owner of the Dolphins, welcomed the Williams sisters with open arms. “We are thrilled to have Venus and Serena join the Dolphins as limited partners,” he said.
“Their addition to our ownership group further reflects our commitment to connect with aggressively and embrace the great diversity that makes South Florida a multicultural gem.”
A Lucrative Investment
At the time of their investment in 2009, the Miami Dolphins were valued at an estimated $1.2 billion. Over the past decade, the team’s valuation has skyrocketed to an impressive $4.6 billion as of August 2022, according to Forbes.
This remarkable growth highlights the sisters’ keen business sense and the value they’ve brought to the franchise. Beyond her tennis legacy, Serena Williams has established herself as a formidable businesswoman.
She leads her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures, which has invested in companies like Zigazoo and Parfait. Additionally, Serena owns brands like Will Perform, a wellness company, and 926 Productions, a multimedia firm amplifying diverse voices.
Venus’ Business Empire
Not to be outdone, Venus Williams has built an impressive business portfolio. She owns a clothing line, a sunscreen brand, and the plant-based superfood company Happy Viking, among other ventures.
The sisters’ entrepreneurial pursuits extend beyond sports, solidifying their status as influential figures in the business world.
The Williams sisters’ investment in the Miami Dolphins was a groundbreaking moment, shattering barriers and inspiring change in a traditionally male-dominated industry.