The Super Bowl 2025 halftime show was electrifying, but it was the unexpected twist brought by tennis icon Serena Williams that had everyone talking. Instead of the typical musical acts, Williams took the stage, dancing to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” a blistering diss track with direct references to her former flame, Drake. As the Super Bowl viewers looked on, the combination of Williams’ undeniable charisma and the provocative lyrics ignited a social media storm, with fans dissecting every moment of the performance.
The allure of Williams extends beyond tennis; she has consistently made headlines for her powerful presence both on and off the court. But this time, it was her dance moves, set against a backdrop of lyrical jabs aimed at an ex-boyfriend, that transformed the halftime show into something far more contentious. What might have seemed like just another performance quickly spiraled into layers of drama, old rivalries, and contemporary conversations surrounding female empowerment.
As the public weighed in on Williams’ choice of music and the implications of her performance, her husband, Alexis Ohanian, stepped into the fray. The co-founder of Reddit has always been an outspoken advocate for Williams, and after the show, he took to social media to voice his approval. His tweet, which accompanied a snapshot from his VIP vantage point, read, “Pretty fantastic halftime show,” reinforcing his status as Williams’ biggest supporter.
However, Ohanian’s sentiments didn’t stop at mere encouragement. He addressed the criticism that Williams faced following her performance, especially considering her history with public scrutiny concerning her actions and expressions. This insistence on defending Williams speaks volumes not only about his commitment as a partner but also about society’s often hypocritical standards for women, particularly women of color in sports and entertainment.
The internet was awash with opinions after Williams’ performance, and many were quick to spotlight the parallels between this incident and a similar outcry from 2012 when she performed the Crip Walk after securing an Olympic gold medal. Back then, conservative pundits sparked controversy over her celebration, arguing that it dragged an urban hip-hop dance into a realm that was traditionally conservative and restrained. Bringing this historical context back into the spotlight, Ohanian rightfully challenged the double standards involved in how Williams continues to be scrutinized compared to her male counterparts.
Beyond mere social commentary, Ohanian pushed back hard against the critics of his wife’s dance moves. He highlighted past statements from media figures like Jason Whitlock, who condemned her previous celebratory actions, claiming they were inappropriate for the setting. By juxtaposing historical remarks with today’s discourse, he underscored an uncomfortable truth about consistency in societal judgment—especially for women who dare to express themselves unapologetically.
This latest incident with Williams reflects a broader conversation about cultural appropriation, representation, and the often conflicting narratives around women in sports. Ohanian’s rebuttals aren’t simply a defense of his wife; they are also a critique of a system that perpetuates outdated views about femininity and acceptable behavior in public spheres. The very fact that a woman’s dance could be met with vitriol while male artists revel in similar expressions points to a steep hill women climb in achieving parity in public perception.
His commentary, paired with a humorous video featuring Samuel L. Jackson mocking the criticism leveled at Williams, cleverly encapsulates the long-standing fight against criticism of Black culture. In this age of social media, where every misstep can be amplified and scrutinized, Ohanian’s decisive stance serves as an empowering message: Women should embrace their narratives and celebrate their accomplishments without fear of backlash.
As Williams continues her journey as an athlete and cultural figure, her partnership with Ohanian will undoubtedly provide a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of fatherhood, celebrity, and advocacy. Their love story began not long after her breakup with Drake and has blossomed into a partnership grounded in mutual respect and admiration.
With their growing family and a shared commitment to championing women, their narrative is a testament to resilience and the power of love. As the couple welcomed their second daughter, Adira River Ohanian, in August 2023, their legacy only deepens—paving the way for future generations to witness relatable stories of strength, confrontation, and the beauty of self-expression.
In an era where performers feel pressured to fit into molds dictated by critics and traditions, Williams’ powerful halftime performance was not just a personal triumph; it was a statement that resonated with audiences. It signified that cultural narratives are changing, and women are here to take their rightful space.