Alexis Ohanian Stands Up for Serena Williams Amid Criticism Over Super Bowl Halftime Show

Alexis Ohanian, the husband of tennis legend Serena Williams, has come to her defense after she faced backlash for her surprise cameo in Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show. Ohanian, 41, took to social media to address the criticism, sharing an excerpt from an article that quoted media pundit Jason Whitlock. Whitlock, 57, had harshly condemned Williams, 43, for her performance, stating that she “deserved to be criticized and she should’ve immediately apologized.” Whitlock even went as far as to compare her dance to “cracking a tasteless, X-rated joke inside a church.” Ohanian wasted no time in firing back, reminding critics that Serena had faced similar scrutiny for the same dance 13 years ago at Wimbledon. “Some of y’all have no idea how criticized Serena was for this same dance at Wimbledon 13 years ago and it shows…. This is bigger than the music,” he tweeted, accompanied by a clip of the moment. Ohanian’s defense highlights the double standards and unwarranted criticism that Williams has consistently faced throughout her career.

The Halftime Show and the Backlash

The Super Bowl halftime show, which took place on Sunday, February 11, was a highly anticipated event, featuring Kendrick Lamar and his electrifying performance. During the show, cameras captured Serena Williams dancing on top of a platform inside New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome. Williams was seen crip walking, a dance with deep roots in Compton, California, where both she and Lamar grew up. While many fans loved seeing Williams let loose and enjoy herself, others were quick to voice their disapproval. Some critics felt that her performance was inappropriate or attention-seeking, while others took issue with the dance itself, citing its origins in gang culture. The backlash was reminiscent of the criticism Williams faced years ago at Wimbledon, where her celebration on the court was met with similar disapproval. Ohanian’s response to the criticism was swift and pointed, emphasizing that the scrutiny Williams faces is often disproportionate and unfair.

Mixed Reactions from Fans and Pundits

The reaction to Williams’ cameo was deeply divided, with some fans praising her for embracing the moment and others expressing discontent. One vocal critic was sports pundit Stephen A. Smith, who weighed in on the topic during an episode of First Take. Smith referenced Williams’ past rumored romance with rapper Drake, suggesting that her involvement in the show was a form of trolling her ex. “If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his ass,” Smith said. “Cause clearly you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for and you’re with me? Bye. Bye.” Smith’s comments sparked further debate, with some viewers accusing him of overstepping and others defending his right to express his opinion. The controversy surrounding Williams’ appearance only added to the buzz surrounding the halftime show, with many fans and critics alike weighing in on social media.

The Dance, the Drama, and the Feud

At the heart of the controversy was Williams’ crip walking, a dance that has been a hallmark of Kendrick Lamar’s performances. The dance, which originated in Compton, holds significant cultural importance and has been a symbol of resilience and pride for those who grew up in the area. Williams, who also hails from Compton, seemed to embrace the moment, dancing with confidence and joy. However, her involvement in the performance also fueled speculation about her alleged feud with Drake. The two were romantically linked in the early 2010s, though they never publicly confirmed their relationship. Lamar’s song “Not Like Us,” which he performed during the halftime show, appears to address the situation, with lyrics that explicitly warn Drake to “better not speak on Serena.” Williams herself addressed the song during her hosting gig at the ESPY Awards in July 2024, quipping, “If I’ve learned anything this year, it’s that none of us, not a single one of us, not even me, should ever pick a fight with Kendrick Lamar. He will make your hometown not like you. The next time Drake sits courtside at a Raptors game, they’re going to Forrest Gump him. Seats taken.”

Serena Williams and the Power of Resilience

Despite the backlash, Williams remains a beloved and respected figure, both on and off the court. Her resilience in the face of criticism is a testament to her strength and determination. Ohanian’s unwavering support for his wife is a reminder of the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity. “Pretty fantastic halftime show,” he wrote on social media, reposting footage of Williams dancing with a caption that read, “Highlight of the Super Bowl.” Ohanian’s defense of Williams is not just about standing up for his wife; it’s about challenging the broader cultural narrative that often seeks to diminish and silence powerful women. Williams’ Super Bowl cameo may have sparked controversy, but it also served as a reminder of her enduring appeal and the joy she brings to everything she does.

A Love Story Rooted in Mutual Respect

Alexis Ohanian and Serena Williams’ relationship is built on a foundation of mutual respect and admiration. Ohanian, who co-founded Reddit, has long been Williams’ biggest cheerleader, often celebrating her achievements and standing up for her when she faces unfair criticism. His response to the backlash over her Super Bowl cameo was no exception. By calling out the hypocrisy and double standards that Williams has faced throughout her career, Ohanian highlighted the deeper issues at play. It’s not just about a dance or a performance—it’s about the systemic scrutiny that women, particularly Black women, face in the public eye. Ohanian’s support for Williams is a powerful reminder of the importance of allyship and the enduring impact of love and solidarity in the face of adversity. As the couple continues to navigate the challenges of fame and public life, their bond remains a source of inspiration for fans around the world.