Serena Williams and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, made headlines during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, but not for the reasons one might expect. As the couple walked the red carpet with their six-year-old daughter, Olympia, a British sports commentator mistakenly referred to Ohanian as Williams’ “umbrella holder.”
The moment occurred as Williams, dressed in a stunning red mid-length dress, posed for photos while Ohanian stood behind her, holding a blue umbrella to shield her from the rain. Commentator Laura Woods remarked, “She looks absolutely incredible. 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.”
This light-hearted mix-up quickly went viral on social media, with fans expressing their amusement at the comment. One user tweeted, “Can’t get over the commentator referring to Alexis Ohanian as Serena Williams’ personal umbrella holder; really don’t think she was kidding too.” Another chimed in, “That ‘umbrella holder’ is her HUSBAND and the co-founder of Reddit.”
Ohanian himself took the incident in stride, sharing a photo of his family on Instagram with the caption, “Olympia. Serena. Serena’s Personal Umbrella Holder,” complete with a laughing emoji. His playful response showcased his good humor about the situation, and he seemed to embrace the title with pride.
The couple, who married in 2017, have been a beloved fixture in the public eye, often showcasing their strong family bond. They welcomed their first daughter, Olympia, just two months before their wedding, and their second daughter, Adira, was born in August 2023.
During the opening ceremony, Williams played a significant role, participating in the torch relay alongside other sports legends like Rafael Nadal and Carl Lewis. The four athletes carried the Olympic torch down the River Seine, culminating in a ceremonial lighting of the cauldron. Williams described the experience as “unforgettable,” highlighting the joy of being part of such a monumental event.
Despite the occasional light-hearted jabs at Ohanian’s role as Williams’ husband, he has consistently expressed his admiration for her achievements. In a previous response to rapper Drake, who referred to him as Williams’ “groupie,” Ohanian defended his position, stating, “The reason I stay winning is because I’m relentless about being the absolute best at whatever I do – including being the best groupie for my wife and daughter.”
Ohanian’s unwavering support for Williams has been evident throughout their relationship. He often shares moments of pride in her accomplishments, whether on the tennis court or in her personal life. Their partnership exemplifies a modern family dynamic, where both parents support each other’s careers while nurturing their children.
As the couple continues to navigate their public lives, moments like the “umbrella holder” incident serve as a reminder of the light-heartedness that can exist amidst the pressures of fame. Fans appreciate the authenticity of their relationship, which is marked by humor, love, and mutual respect.
In the end, the mix-up at the Paris Olympics only added to the charm of the event, showcasing the playful side of celebrity culture. Ohanian’s ability to laugh at the situation and Williams’ radiant presence on the red carpet further solidified their status as one of Hollywood’s most beloved couples.
Source: Various News Outlets
