The U.S. women’s national team defeated China 3-0 in a friendly match on Saturday, but the victory didn’t stop there, with tennis legend Serena Williams also making an appearance.
Williams watched the game from a sideline box at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale with her husband, Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian, and daughter Olympia.
After the game, Williams posed for photos with U.S. women’s soccer players including Lynn Williams, Alyssa Thompson, Naomi Gilma, Sofia Smith and Trinity Rodman. Williams also took a photo with interim head coach Twila Kilgore.
Ohanian is a major investor in NWSL team Angel City FC and is known for his support of women’s soccer. Williams and her daughter are also part of ACFC’s nearly all-female-owned group, which includes many prominent business women, 14 former USWNT players and actress Natalie Portman. Ohanian wore an ACFC hat during the game.
After the game, Olympia Ohanian spoke with forward Midge Purce, whose shot led directly to Team USA’s third goal, scored by Rodman in the 77th minute Attack.
Williams previously competed in the United States Women’s Tennis Federation (USWNT). In 2019, players chose the names of women who inspire them and put them on the back of their jerseys. USWNT defender and midfielder Crystal Dunn chose Williams.
Saturday’s game featured two U.S. women’s soccer debuts — midfielders Jenna Nighswonger and Olivia Moultrie — and some of the team’s younger players. Stars also get additional appearances. The U.S. Women’s National Team will face China in the second leg of the Friendship Games on December 5 in Frisco, Texas.