Greek-Nigerian athlete, Giannis Antetokounmpo has joined the ownership group of Chelsea Women, partnering with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian in the latest high-profile U.S. investment into English football.
The NBA superstar becomes the newest global sports icon to invest in the women’s game, following a growing trend of American athletes and entertainers backing British clubs.
NFL legend Tom Brady acquired a minority stake in Birmingham City in 2023, while Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have overseen Wrexham’s rise since purchasing the Welsh club in 2021.
The Milwaukee Bucks star announced his investment on social media on Saturday.
“I’m proud and honored to partner with my friend @alexisohanian, joining the ownership group of Chelsea Women, a historic club built on passion, excellence, and a winning culture,” Giannis wrote.
“Chelsea’s history speaks for itself, and I’m excited to contribute to the future by supporting continued growth and impact in women’s sport.”
“This is about ambition, legacy, and pushing the game to new heights.”
“Up the Chels!”
Ohanian, who purchased a 10% stake in Chelsea Women last year, welcomed Antetokounmpo with a photo of the NBA star visiting Stamford Bridge several years ago, posting:
“Welcome home my friend!”
Giannis Antetokounmpo is not the first NBA player to invest in European football. LeBron James has held a minority stake in Liverpool since 2011, while Kevin Durant became a minority shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.
The two-time NBA Most Valuable Player and 2021 NBA champion joins Chelsea Women at a time of transition for the club, which has dominated the Women’s Super League (WSL) in recent years.
Chelsea Facing Tougher Domestic Campaign
Chelsea Women have won six consecutive WSL titles, but are set to relinquish their crown this season. The Blues sit third in the table, 12 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City, with eight matches remaining.
The west London side has suffered back-to-back league defeats, including a heavy 5-1 loss to Manchester City last weekend, following a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal.
The losses handed Chelsea its first consecutive WSL defeats in a decade.
Sonia Bompastor Extends Chelsea’s Contract to 2030
Chelsea confirmed on Friday that head coach Sonia Bompastor has signed a new contract extension until 2030.
Despite the team’s recent downturn in form, the club holds a long-term confidence in her leadership.
The 45-year-old French coach, who replaced Emma Hayes in May 2024, enjoyed a remarkable debut season, guiding Chelsea to an unbeaten domestic treble.
This includes an invincible WSL campaign and a sixth straight league title, achieved with the highest points tally in WSL history.
Speaking after signing her new deal, Bompastor said:
“I want to thank the club for their unwavering support and the trust they have shown in me. It’s a privilege to lead this team and I could not be prouder to represent Chelsea.”
“Our fans have made me feel at home since the day I arrived and I am grateful for the many special moments we have shared together so far.”
“We have so much left to fight for, we are competing on four fronts and we will give everything, every single day, to make our supporters proud.”
Chelsea sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley also backed the decision, praising Bompastor’s impact both on and off the pitch.
“Since the day Sonia joined Chelsea, she has delivered a level of excellence that has elevated our women’s team on and off the pitch,” they said.
“Her impact has been immediate and significant, and the standards she sets embody exactly what we want this club to represent.”
“Renewing her contract reflects our belief in her leadership, her vision, and the stability she brings to the club.”
