At Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, tennis icon Serena Williams made a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance. Dressed in a blue tennis outfit, Williams performed the Crip walk during Lamar’s rendition of “Not Like Us,” a track known for its critical references to rapper Drake, with whom Williams was rumored to have had a past relationship. This brief yet impactful cameo quickly became a focal point of public discourse.
The performance elicited a spectrum of reactions. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith expressed disapproval, stating that if his spouse engaged in such an act, especially one perceived as referencing a former partner, he would consider ending the relationship. Smith’s comments underscored a viewpoint that Williams’ actions were inappropriate for a married individual.
In contrast, Serena’s husband, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, publicly defended her. He highlighted that Williams had faced similar criticism 13 years prior for performing the same dance at Wimbledon. Ohanian emphasized that the moment transcended the music, suggesting deeper cultural and personal significance.
Williams herself addressed the performance, sharing behind-the-scenes insights on social media. She recounted how Kendrick Lamar’s team approached her, expressing admiration for her Crip walk after her 2012 Olympic victory and proposing a collaboration for the Super Bowl. Williams embraced the opportunity, viewing it as a full-circle moment that connected her athletic achievements with her cultural roots.
The incident also sparked discussions about the intersection of personal relationships and public performances. Some commentators, like Whoopi Goldberg, criticized the tendency to frame Williams’ actions solely in the context of her past relationship with Drake, arguing that such perspectives diminish her agency and accomplishments.
In conclusion, Serena Williams’ Super Bowl halftime appearance became a multifaceted event, intertwining sports, music, personal history, and cultural expression. The varied reactions, from criticism to support, highlight the complexities public figures navigate when their personal and professional lives intersect on such prominent stages.
Be the first to comment