Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian sees Chelsea as 'billion-dollar franchise' as husband of tennis icon Serena Williams predicts bright future for 'queens of global soccer'

Ohanian, the husband of tennis icon Serena Williams, has acquired a 10 per cent stake in the Blues’ women’s team. He has seen them complete a domestic treble in 2024-25 with WSL, League Cup and FA Cup honours.

The last of those trophies was captured at Wembley Stadium when seeing off Manchester United 3-0, with Ohanian and Williams among those in attendance. The dominant west London-based outfit are being told that "the sky is the limit".

Ohanian told BBC Sport of his ambitious plans for the future: "Chelsea is very unique. These are the queens of global soccer and they’ve got the trophy case to prove it. I feel so humbled. This is a very special club.

"The sky is the limit. You heard our president say this club is unapologetically ambitious – I want to get that tattooed on me. That is what we’re trying to build here. Not just to be the best team, but the best team in the world and at the forefront of women’s sport.

"This will be a billion-dollar franchise one day and I hope my dollars, my pounds, can go towards that and especially back home in America, this is going to be America’s team."

Ohanian had already stated his desire to build Chelsea’s fanbase in the States when saying on social media in the wake of his stake purchase: "I’ve bet big on women’s sports before – and I’m doing it again. I’m proud to announce that I’m joining Chelsea FCW as an investor and board member.

"I’m honoured for the chance to help this iconic club become America’s favourite Barclays WSL team and much, much more."

Chelsea have continued to pick up major honours on a regular basis despite bidding farewell to legendary coach Emma Hayes in 2024. Sonia Bompastor has proved to be a suitable successor to the current USWNT boss.