Serena Williams was joined by her husband, Alexis Ohanian, and their two children at the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, where there was a hilarious mix-up.
As the couple walked along the red carpet at the opening ceremony Ohanian dutifully stood behind his wife carrying an umbrella to protect Williams from the pouring rain.
As he walked behind her, a commentator for Eurosport deemed Ohanian her “umbrella holder,” not realizing he was Williams’ husband.
“She looks absolutely incredible,” gushed the commentator.
“She’s got someone just behind us holding an umbrella. Those are the levels you aspire to. To have an actual umbrella holder behind you.”
Ohanian, the Reddit co-founder and a self-starter millionaire who tied the knot with Williams in 2017, found amusement in the commentary.
The 41-year-old tech mogul took to Instagram with a family snap from before the rain hit, making reference to his impromptu new position.
“Olympia. Serena. Serena’s Personal Umbrella Holder,” he posted, complete with a laughter emoji. “Let the games begin!”
“More people know me for the pancakes I do”
Despite his significant accomplishments and wealth, Ohanian remains humble and grounded, always ready to support his family. This incident highlighted not just his humorous side but also his deep affection for his wife and daughter.
In an interview with “Access Hollywood,” Ohanian expressed that he is okay with being less familiar and letting Williams have the spotlight. “More people know me for the pancakes I do than for creating Reddit, and you know what, I’m OK with that,” Ohanian said.
On the other hand, Williams blazed to success throughout her career — including earning four Olympic gold medals.
She captured one in women’s singles at London 2012 and three in women’s doubles with her sister Venus Williams.
To honor her fiery career, the Williams fittingly got to carry the Olympic flame during the torch relay with Rafael Nadal.