"Track is never going back" - Serena Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian weighs in on his support for women's sports after the success of Athlos NYC

Serena Williams' husband Alexis Ohanian recently expressed his optimism for evolution in women's track after garnering praise from Athlos NYC champion Brittany Brown. The female-only track event Athlos NYC is Ohanian's brainchild, whose debut edition was held on Thursday, 26 September 2024, at Icahn Stadium in New York City.

Brittany Brown secured a staggering prize money of $85,000 at the Athlos NYC after earning first and second place in the 200m and 100m races, respectively. Moreover, she also earned a Tiffany and Co. silver crown, worth $25,000.

Following her success, she took to social media to reflect on her incredible experience of being treated with respect and recognition. She also expressed her gratitude towards Ohanian for promoting and celebrating female athletes.

"This is HERstory," Brown wrote. "This meet was indescribable. To be treated like a professional athlete, to be treated like a professional female athlete."

"Real thank you so much for seeing us, @athlos @alexisohanian," she added.

Ohanian acknowledged Brown's hard work while stating that Athlos NYC is just the beginning of the evolution of women's track. He further expressed his commitment to the progress and growth of female athletics.

"You showed UP! And thrilled the crowd," Ohanian wrote. "This is PHASE I for @athlos and Track is never going back -- only forward from here and we're just getting started!!"

Screenshot of Brittany Brown's' Instagram story.

"None of this is about charity" - Alexis Ohanian views women's sports as smart business investment

Alexis Ohanian announced the Athlos NYC in April. (Source: Getty)

Tennis legend Serena Williams' husband and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian announced the Athlos NYC in April 2024 along with Paris Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas, who headlined the event. The meet featured other multiple Olympians, including Faith Kipyegon, and Alexis Holmes.

The first-of-its-kind all-women's track and field meet provided a staggering $60,000 to the winners along with a silver crown. Moreover, the elite athletes were treated like "queens," providing premium-class travel and accommodation facilities.

The debut edition was broadcast on multiple platforms, including X, YouTube, ESPN+, or DAZN, adding to the sold-out stadium. In an interview with Citius Mag, Ohanian stated that supporting the female track is a philanthropic endeavor and a smart business investment, highlighting its benefits for women's sports.

“If every single one of the women who races here today feels like this was the best meet of their lives, check," Alexis Ohanian said. "We’re doing something right. Job’s not finished, but we’re doing something right.”

"None of this is about charity. It's pure business and the reality is women are a great investment and women in sport are an exceptional great investment."

The Athlos NYC gained silver status from World Athletics before its inaugural edition.