Alexis Ohanian reveals how a thoughtful gift from Tiger Woods may have led Serena Williams’ daughter Olympia to develop a passion for golf, drifting away from tennis despite her mother’s efforts.
Tiger WoodsScott HeppellAP Photo
Serena Williams’ daughter, Olympia, has shown interest in several sports, but it’s golf that currently captures her attention, thanks to a thoughtful gift from Tiger Woods. Alexis Ohanian, her father, shared how Woods’ gesture sparked a new Sunday tradition for them, with Olympia now hitting the greens regularly.
At just seven years old, Olympia has already explored a range of sports. Initially intrigued by tennis, she began to drift towards other activities, eventually picking up golf after receiving a club set from “Uncle Tiger.” Alexis Ohanian, despite having no golf experience, became a “daddy caddie,” encouraging Olympia’s newfound passion. He shared on a radio show that her fascination with the sport grew as she practiced regularly, guided by her instructor Brittany Ferrante.
This shift in focus has even prompted Ohanian to take up golf himself, although he admits to sticking mainly to the driving range. Olympia, however, dives fully into the sport, showing steady progress. Just recently, Ohanian shared a proud Instagram update, noting that Olympia made a bogey, showcasing her growth and enjoyment of the game.
While Ohanian is supportive of Olympia’s choices, Serena Williams has candidly admitted her desire for her daughter to follow in her footsteps. During a CBS News interview, Williams shared that Olympia was initially involved in tennis but gradually lost interest. Despite Olympia’s natural talent, Williams expressed disappointment, explaining how she’s tried to rekindle that interest by organizing group tennis lessons, hoping peer interaction would reignite her enthusiasm. So far, those attempts have been unsuccessful.
A potential future golf star
Olympia’s love for golf appears to be sticking, and Tiger Woods’ thoughtful gift could have planted the seeds for the next generation of golf talent. With her father’s unwavering support and a growing confidence on the course, Olympia may continue to thrive in this sport. Only time will tell whether she will stick with golf or rekindle her interest in tennis, but for now, it seems Woods’ kind gesture has opened up a new and exciting chapter for the young athlete.