JUST IN: Stephen A. Smith is defending his criticism after Serena Williams surprised the crowd with her unexpected appearance at the 2025 Super Bowl LIX. Get the ESPN personality’s full reaction to her halftime
Stephen A. Smith Justifies His Critique of Serena Williams’ Super Bowl LIX Halftime Performance
Debate Arises Over Serena Williams’ Unexpected Appearance
Super Bowl LIX featured numerous surprises, but none was as startling as the appearance of tennis icon Serena Williams during the halftime show. The 23-time Grand Slam champion joined headliner Kendrick Lamar for a brief yet lively dance routine, which quickly ignited a flurry of reactions on social media.
However, the moment did not resonate positively with everyone. ESPN commentator and sports media figure Stephen A. Smith promptly expressed his discontent, leading to a vigorous discussion that has since evolved into a significant media controversy.
Stephen A. Smith’s Initial Remarks on Williams’ Performance
On the February 10 episode of ESPN’s First Take, Smith candidly shared his views on Williams’ appearance. While he recognized her as a legendary athlete, he questioned the suitability of her involvement in the performance, especially considering that Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us,” to which she danced, was largely perceived as a diss track directed at rapper Drake.
The history between Drake and Williams is well-documented, with rumors of a past romantic relationship. Smith implied that, as a married woman, Williams should have thought twice about participating in the performance.
“If I were married and my wife decided to engage in mocking her ex, I would suggest she return to him, as it would be clear she does not belong with me,” Smith stated candidly on First Take.
His comments elicited a range of responses. Some viewers concurred, arguing that Williams should have been more considerate of the song’s implications. Conversely, others deemed his remarks unwarranted and even disrespectful, contending that Williams’ brief dance was merely a lighthearted moment rather than a deliberate affront to her previous relationship.
Alexis Ohanian Stands Up for Serena Williams
Among the first to react to Smith’s statements was Alexis Ohanian, Serena Williams’ husband and co-founder of Reddit. Ohan.
