When tennis legend Serena Williams appeared at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, it wasn’t just her presence that made waves, it was the speculation surrounding her cameo during Kendrick Lamar ’s controversial performance of "Not Like Us." With the lyrics aimed at her ex, rapper Drake, many wondered if Williams ’ appearance was a subtle message. But now, Williams is clearing the air.
Serena Williams explains real reason she showed up
Serena Williams wasted no time addressing rumors about her involvement in Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show. In an interview with Time’s 100 Most Influential People, she firmly rejected the notion that her brief moment on stage was a jab at Drake. "Absolutely not," she said. “I’ve never had any negative feelings toward him. We’ve known each other for years."
Despite the intense speculation, Williams insists her appearance was not about revisiting the past, but about celebrating something far bigger, her long-standing connection with Kendrick Lamar.
The story behind Serena and Kendrick’s connection
Williams’ cameo was more than just a surprise. It was the result of a deep respect between her and Lamar. After winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, Williams made headlines for performing the Crip Walk, a move that sparked some media backlash. But Kendrick Lamar saw it differently, he admired how she represented hip-hop on the world stage.
Serena said she was shocked when Kendrick asked her to join him for the Super Bowl. She admitted she’s not known for dancing, saying, “I’m not Taylor Swift, let’s be honest,” but added that the moment felt special because of their bond.
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Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, also weighed in, defending the moment as a cultural celebration, not a personal dig. “Some of y’all don’t understand how much Serena has been criticized for expressing herself in this way,” he posted on X, highlighting the significance beyond the music.
In the end, Serena Williams’ Super Bowl cameo wasn’t about drama or dissing anyone. It was a celebration of culture, friendship, and mutual respect between two icons. While the rumors may continue to swirl, the truth is clear: this moment was about much more than the past, it was about acknowledging the impact of both Williams and Kendrick Lamar on the global stage.
Serena Williams explains real reason she showed up
Serena Williams wasted no time addressing rumors about her involvement in Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show. In an interview with Time’s 100 Most Influential People, she firmly rejected the notion that her brief moment on stage was a jab at Drake. "Absolutely not," she said. “I’ve never had any negative feelings toward him. We’ve known each other for years."
Despite the intense speculation, Williams insists her appearance was not about revisiting the past, but about celebrating something far bigger, her long-standing connection with Kendrick Lamar.
The story behind Serena and Kendrick’s connection
Williams’ cameo was more than just a surprise. It was the result of a deep respect between her and Lamar. After winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics, Williams made headlines for performing the Crip Walk, a move that sparked some media backlash. But Kendrick Lamar saw it differently, he admired how she represented hip-hop on the world stage.
Serena said she was shocked when Kendrick asked her to join him for the Super Bowl. She admitted she’s not known for dancing, saying, “I’m not Taylor Swift, let’s be honest,” but added that the moment felt special because of their bond.
Also Read: Dak Prescott leads charge, but Cowboys must secure Micah Parsons long-term
Her husband, Alexis Ohanian, also weighed in, defending the moment as a cultural celebration, not a personal dig. “Some of y’all don’t understand how much Serena has been criticized for expressing herself in this way,” he posted on X, highlighting the significance beyond the music.
In the end, Serena Williams’ Super Bowl cameo wasn’t about drama or dissing anyone. It was a celebration of culture, friendship, and mutual respect between two icons. While the rumors may continue to swirl, the truth is clear: this moment was about much more than the past, it was about acknowledging the impact of both Williams and Kendrick Lamar on the global stage.
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