Williams sisters buy stake in Dolphins

MIAMI, Aug. 25 (UPI) -- Venus and Serena Williams, who have combined to win 18 grand slam singles tennis titles, were announced Tuesday as limited partners for the Miami Dolphins.

The Dolphins said the superstar tennis sisters were the first African-American females to hold an ownership stake in an NFL franchise.

"We are thrilled to have Venus and Serena join the Dolphins as limited partners," said Stephen Ross, owner and managing general partner of the team.

"They are among the most admired athletes in the world and have become global ambassadors for the game of tennis. Their addition to our ownership group further reflects our commitment to connect with aggressively and embrace the great diversity that makes South Florida a multicultural gem."

There was no announcement as to how large a financial stake the sisters will have in the team.

In addition to their 18 major singles crowns, they have teamed to win nine grand slam doubles titles, 61 WTA Tour championships and three Olympic gold medals.