In a surprising twist during the Super Bowl halftime show, tennis legend Serena Williams made a cameo that has sparked discussions about rivalry in the music world. Williams appeared alongside Kendrick Lamar, who performed his Grammy-winning single “Not Like Us”—a track often interpreted as a diss directed at Canadian rapper Drake. Although some fans speculated that Williams’ appearance was a deliberate jab at Drake, she has since clarified her intentions, emphasizing that there was nothing petty about her participation.
Reflecting on her experience, Williams described the performance as enjoyable, stating, “That was so fun.” The tennis star, who has previously dated Drake, found herself in the midst of a narrative that many saw as a continuation of the ongoing feud between the rapper and Lamar. During the performance, Williams was seen seawalking, a dance style that has drawn mixed reactions, particularly given her history of criticism for similar moves at Wimbledon 13 years ago.
Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, took to social media platform X to defend Williams, dismissing any connections to the supposed rap beef. Ohanian expressed his support for his wife, highlighting the challenges she faced when dancing in a competitive environment. “Some of y’all have no idea how criticized Serena was for the same dance at Wimbledon,” he noted. His comments underline the scrutiny Williams has endured throughout her career, both on and off the court.
In a follow-up statement, Williams underscored that she is too focused on her business ventures and personal growth to engage in any negativity. “I’ve been sick and busy investing in billion-dollar companies,” she remarked, asserting that her accomplishments—23 Grand Slam titles and four Olympic gold medals—speak volumes about her priorities. “I simply don’t have time for petty,” she added, emphasizing her commitment to positivity and authenticity.
Williams also expressed gratitude towards her husband for his unwavering support during the media frenzy. She reassured fans that her actions during the halftime show were not meant to stir the pot. “All love and respect always, nothing negative here,” she affirmed, reiterating her desire to be true to herself amidst public perception.
Currently enjoying a vacation with her youngest daughter, Williams appears to be prioritizing family and relaxation over drama. As she chooses to trade the spotlight for sunny days on the beach, it is evident that Serena Williams is steering clear of any unnecessary conflicts, opting instead for a life filled with love and success.