Serena Williams made a brief but impactful appearance. During Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime performance of Drake’s “Not Like Us,” she joined him on stage for less than five seconds, performing a crip walk.
Williams’ appearance was significant for several reasons: Both she and Lamar are from Compton, California. Furthermore, Williams and Drake have a history of public tension, stemming from past rumors of a relationship and Drake’s lyrics referencing Williams and her husband, Alexis Ohanian.
Lamar’s lyrics in “Not Like Us” seemingly warn Drake against speaking negatively about Williams.
While hosting the ESPY Awards, Williams jokingly cautioned against challenging Lamar, referencing the potential consequences for Drake.
The dance Williams performed at the Super Bowl also held personal significance, reminiscent of her 2012 Olympic celebration that drew considerable criticism. At the time, commentators labeled her dance as inappropriate, drawing comparisons to an offensive joke in a sacred space. Others suggested the dance was simply celebratory. Williams, whose sister was murdered by a gang member, defended her actions.
Over a decade later, she reflected on the negative response, playfully commenting on the contrast between her 2012 Wimbledon performance and her Super Bowl appearance.
Williams’ brief cameo quickly gained widespread attention online.
Other tennis players and the NFL and NBA official accounts praised Williams’ performance on X.
Many online users highlighted the significance of Williams’ dance, contrasting it with the criticism she faced years earlier and noting its cultural context within the performance criticizing Drake.
Lamar also received praise for including Williams in his performance, with users contrasting his actions with Drake’s past behavior towards Williams.
Some online users expressed sympathy for Drake’s situation.
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