Alexis Ohanian, the Reddit co-founder and prominent venture capitalist, has secured a franchise in the upcoming women’s edition of the TGL, a tech-infused golf league co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. The move, announced this week, further solidifies Ohanian’s commitment to investing in women’s sports and brings his Los Angeles Golf Club (LAGC) into the burgeoning world of team golf. The investment, reportedly valued at $20 million, underscores the growing financial interest in the WTGL and the broader landscape of women’s professional golf.
Ohanian’s involvement isn’t new to the TGL. He previously invested in LAGC in 2023, alongside his wife, tennis legend Serena Williams, and her sister, Venus Williams. That team recently claimed the championship title in the second edition of the league, demonstrating the potential for success and attracting further investment. This latest acquisition, but, specifically targets the newly formed women’s league, a venture announced in January through a partnership between TMRW Sports and the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). The inaugural season is slated to begin this winter, promising a fresh and innovative approach to the sport.
A Growing Portfolio of Women’s Sports Investments
This investment in the WTGL is just the latest example of Ohanian’s dedication to elevating women’s athletics. He has rapidly become a significant figure in the space, with existing stakes in several prominent teams, and ventures. He holds an ownership position in Chelsea Women, a leading team in the Women’s Super League (WSL), and has likewise invested in a League One Volleyball franchise based in Los Angeles. Previously, Ohanian was the majority shareholder of Angel City FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), a team that quickly gained a devoted following and demonstrated the market for women’s soccer in Los Angeles.
Ohanian’s commitment extends beyond team ownership. He also backs Athlos, a venture focused on women’s track and field. He has publicly stated his belief in the untapped potential of women’s sports, and his investment strategy reflects a desire to not only support athletes but also to build sustainable and profitable businesses around them. According to TMRW Sports CEO Mike McCarley, Ohanian and Williams have been “vocal advocates for women’s sports and champions for WTGL since day one.”
Securing a Foothold in a Rising League
The opportunity to acquire a Los Angeles-based WTGL franchise was strategically secured by Ohanian. He previously negotiated a first right of refusal for a Los Angeles team when he initially invested in the TGL, anticipating the launch of a women’s league. This foresight allowed him to quickly capitalize on the opportunity and bring a team to a major market with a strong base of golf enthusiasts.
Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons, also secured a WTGL franchise earlier this year, reportedly for the same $20 million price tag. The valuations of both LAGC and Atlanta Drive GC, Blank’s team, have been steadily increasing. Last year, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment acquired a stake in LAGC at a valuation of $90 million, while Atlanta Drive GC was valued at $100 million after selling a minority stake.
The WTGL: A New Era for Women’s Golf
The WTGL aims to revolutionize the way golf is presented and consumed, particularly for a female audience. The league will feature teams comprised of LPGA Tour stars competing in a high-tech, fan-friendly environment at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The format is designed to be faster-paced and more engaging than traditional golf, utilizing advanced analytics and immersive technology. Trybe Ventures, an investment vehicle co-founded by US soccer star Alex Morgan, serves as the league’s lead partner, further demonstrating the growing crossover between different sports and investment groups.
Rosters for the inaugural season are yet to be announced, but the league promises to showcase some of the most talented golfers in the world. The WTGL’s partnership with the LPGA is crucial, providing a platform for established players to reach a wider audience and attract new fans to the sport. The league’s success could have a significant impact on the future of women’s golf, potentially leading to increased sponsorship opportunities, higher prize money, and greater media coverage.
“My first question when I took the investment pitch for TGL was ‘men’s golf is great, but when can I secure a women’s team?’” Ohanian said in a statement. “I’m proud that today is the day we can officially announce buying the LA WTGL team.”
The next key date for the WTGL is the announcement of team rosters, expected in the coming months. Fans and industry observers will be closely watching to see which LPGA Tour stars will join the league and how the inaugural season unfolds. The WTGL represents a significant investment in the future of women’s golf, and its success could pave the way for further innovation and growth in the sport.
What are your thoughts on Alexis Ohanian’s investment in the WTGL? Share your comments below and let us know what you think of the future of women’s golf.
