Women’s soccer is experiencing a transformative era, driven by visionary investors who are infusing capital and championing systemic changes to elevate the sport. Among these trailblazers are Michele Kang, Alexis Ohanian, and Magic Johnson, each bringing unique perspectives and commitments to the game.
Michele Kang: building a global women’s soccer empire
A Korean-American businesswoman, Michele Kang, has rapidly emerged as a formidable force in women’s soccer. In 2022, she became the majority owner of the Washington Spirit, marking a significant milestone as the first woman of color to hold such a position in the NWSL.
Kang acquired Olympique Lyonnais Féminin, expanding her influence in France. She rebranded the club to OL Lyonnes to emphasize its distinct identity. Under her leadership, the team now plays home matches at the Groupama Stadium. It’s developing a state-of-the-art, female-focused training facility to set new standards in women’s football.
Kang’s vision extends to England, where she owns the London City Lionesses. Her multi-club ownership model, managed under Kyniska Sports International, seeks to create a global network dedicated exclusively to women’s soccer.
Alexis Ohanian: investing in the potential of women’s football
Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian has been a vocal advocate and investor in women’s sports. His journey began with Angel City FC in the NWSL, where he played a pivotal role in establishing a team that quickly became a model for success and visibility in women’s soccer.
In 2025, Ohanian expanded his portfolio by acquiring a 10% stake in Chelsea Women, investing £20 million. He envisions the club becoming the first women’s sports franchise valued at $1 billion, emphasizing the importance of treating women’s sports as serious business ventures rather than charitable endeavors.
Ohanian’s commitment is also personal; he and his wife, tennis legend Serena Williams, have made their daughter, Olympia, the youngest owner in professional sports, instill equity and empowerment values from an early age.
Magic Johnson: expanding a legacy into women’s soccer
NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson has a history of successful sports investments, including stakes in the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks, and Los Angeles FC.
In 2024, Johnson joined the Washington Spirit’s ownership group, aligning with Michele Kang’s vision to elevate the club and the league. His involvement brings capital, a wealth of experience in sports management, and a commitment to community development.
Naomi Osaka: redefining representation in ownership
Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka joined the ownership group of the North Carolina Courage in 2021, becoming one of the first global athletes of her generation to invest in a women’s soccer team. Her decision was rooted in visibility and representation, especially for women of color in leadership roles.
Osaka’s presence adds star power, but her involvement also signals a deeper cultural shift: athletes aren’t just sponsoring women’s sports but building them. For the Courage, Osaka brings global recognition, media appeal, and a long-term commitment to leveling the playing field.
Natalie Portman and the Angel City model
Oscar-winning actress Natalie Portman co-founded Angel City FC in 2020 alongside Kara Nortman, Julie Uhrman, and a star-studded investor group including Serena Williams, Abby Wambach, Jennifer Garner, and Eva Longoria. Their goal wasn’t just to start a football club but to reimagine how one should be built.
Angel City launched with a radically transparent business model, pledging to reinvest 10% of sponsorship revenue back into the community. Since its debut, it has shattered attendance records and redefined what it means to build a club around values, visibility, and investment in women.
The club’s celebrity-powered ownership brought unprecedented media attention to the NWSL and set a new standard for launching and scaling women’s sports brands from scratch.
