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Serena Williams' sports empire continues to grow. Already having stakes in the Miami Dolphins and Angel City FC, the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion is entering women's professional basketball as the newest member of the ownership group for the forthcoming Canadian WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo.

The team, which will begin play in 2026, announced Williams' addition to its ownership group on Monday, with businessman Larry Tanenbaum, who leads Kilmer Sports Ventures which owns the club, saying in a press release that the former world No. 1 is an "icon, a role model and a force for change in the world."

"Serena is a champion," team president Teresa Resch added. "She's the greatest athlete of all time, and her impact on this team and this country is going to be incredible. She's set the bar for women in sport, business and the world—and her commitment to using that success to create opportunities for other women is inspiring."

The announcement comes on the heels of Williams saying in 2024 that she'd be open to adding a WNBA team to her investment portfolio, calling women's sports "a safe bet."

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In a statement, Williams said: “This moment is not just about basketball; it is about showcasing the true value and potential of female athletes—I have always said that women's sports are an incredible investment opportunity. I am excited to partner with Larry and all of Canada in creating this new WNBA franchise and legacy."

Read more: Serena Williams inspired Angel Reese's Vogue spread that heralded her WNBA intentions

In a Q&A posted on the Tempo's Instagram account, she added: "I love sports, and I'm so grateful for everything I gained from competing on the court, day in and day out. I'm thrilled to be able to play a role in creating those opportunities for more women."

According to the team, Williams will be involved with "bringing the Tempo to life visually," by playing a role in jersey design and merchandise concepts.

Read more: Coco Gauff invests in Unrivaled women’s basketball league

The Tempo is one of two expansion franchises joining the WNBA next year that will bring the league's total to 15. Also joining the league are the Golden State Valkyries, which will call San Francisco's Bay Area home.

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