The Serena Collection | Part One

Community

April 4, 2024

In our recent interview, Alexis Ohanian, the co-founder of Reddit and husband of tennis legend Serena Williams, shared the fascinating story behind his collection of Serena Williams sports cards. A lifelong avid collector, Ohanian quickly turned collecting Serena cards into passion project and a long-term investment in the future of women's sports.

Ohanian's rediscovery of card collecting started in 2019 when a friend introduced him to the idea that sports cards could be valuable cultural assets, akin to owning a piece of history. Intrigued, Ohanian began collecting Serena Williams cards, starting with a glossy card from Net Pro, despite initially knowing little about the hobby.

As he delved deeper into the world of card collecting, Ohanian realized the potential these cards held as a legacy for his family. He saw them not just as investments, but as cultural artifacts that could be passed down through generations, stating, "if you're married to Picasso, you should own as many Picasso's".

Ohanian's passion for women's sports and the potential of women's sports cards is evident throughout his collection. He believes that as women's sports continue to rise in prominence, so too will the value and interest in their collectibles. He sees his collection as a bet on the future of women's sports, hoping that it will inspire his children and grandchildren to appreciate the legacy of their mother and grandmother.

The logistics of building such a collection were not trivial, with Ohanian recounting numerous interactions and transactions over the years. However, he is proud of the collection he has amassed and is excited to see it securely vaulted, knowing that it represents a deliberate effort to build a legacy for his family.

As he looks to the future, Ohanian is bullish on the growth of women's sports and the hobby of card collecting. He sees the potential for the hobby to become more inclusive and representative, mirroring the broader cultural shifts happening in society.

The collection has been approved by PSA for a Pedigree designation, which will cement their legacy forever. Ohanian's story is a testament to the power of collecting as a means of preserving history and building a legacy. His passion for women's sports and his dedication to his family's future shine through, making his Serena Williams card collection not just a valuable asset, but a cherished family heirloom.

Read the write up on the collection in PSA Magazine, see more HERE.

Read the article in Sportico HERE.

Stay tuned for Part Two.