The Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony broadcast took an awkward turn when a commentator referred to Serena Williams’ husband, Alex Ohanian, as her personal “umbrella.”
Despite his busy business schedule, the Reddit co-founder remains a family man and accompanied Williams when she left to take part in the festivities in France.
As the tennis legend stepped onto the red carpet, rain began to pour down on the parade of nations. As a result, Ohanian chivalrously held up an umbrella over his wife.
“It looks absolutely incredible,” said one Eurosport commentator. “There’s someone behind us holding an umbrella.”
“Those are the levels you aspire to,” he continued. “To have a real umbrella stand behind you.”
A Eurosport commentator called Alex Ohanian Serena Williams’ personal “umbrella”
Despite being incorrectly labeled on the broadcast, Ohanian continued to be a gentleman to his stunning wife on the world stage.
In addition to the famous couple, cameras captured their six-year-old daughter, Olympia, posing on the red carpet in front of the Eiffel Tower. Like her mother, Olympia was also present at the event with her umbrella holder.
Speaking to NBC Sports, Williams joked about feeling torn that her days as a competitor are behind her.
“I don’t know if it’s funny or if I’m just a little jealous,” she joked.
She did, however, express her enthusiasm for young American tennis star Coco Gauff, who was given the honour of being the flag bearer of the Stars and Stripes.
“It’s amazing. Isn’t it great? I’m so excited to see her tonight. I’m so happy for her. Oh, God, I love it.”