Three-time Grand Slam singles champion, Naomi Osaka has become a co-owner of the North Carolina Courage, the National Women’s Soccer League club has announced.
Osaka, who is a known advocate for social justice issues, said that her desire to buy into the North Carolina Courage club was inspired by the support she received from other female athletes throughout her career.
The 23-year-old expressed her admiration for USA international star Megan Rapinoe, who is also a renowned rights activist.
“The women who have invested in me growing up made me who I am today and I cannot think of where my life would be without them,” Osaka said in a statement, provided by the team.
“My investment in the North Carolina Courage is far beyond just being a team owner, it’s an investment in amazing women who are role models and leaders in their fields and inspirations to all young female athletes,” she said.
“I also admire everything the Courage does for diversity and equality in the community, which I greatly look forward to supporting and driving forward.”
“From taking a knee in solidarity with Colin Kaepernick to speaking out about LGBTQ rights, she has become a figurehead for sport and activism in the 21st century,” said Osaka.
“Megan and her team have really elevated their sport. When I was young, tennis was really the only option for girls to pursue a professional sports career.
“I am so glad that is finally changing. It is cool to see because football is a great sport for girls. I have a big football project coming, and it is something I am really passionate about.”
Osaka is the first investor since team chairman Steve Malik took over and relocated the organization to North Carolina in 2017.
“I am thrilled to welcome Naomi as an owner of the North Carolina Courage,” Malik said in a statement. “Naomi embodies the values we have been striving to cultivate at our club, and she brings an invaluable viewpoint on topics beyond sports.”
“I cannot think of anyone better to help us as we continue to make a difference in our community and inspire the next generation of women.”
The Courage will enter the 2021 season looking to replace a number of U.S. women’s national team stars who left during the off-season, including Crystal Dunn, Sam Mewis and Abby Dahlkemper.
