The Super Bowl 2025 halftime show was not just a display of athleticism and music; it was a cultural moment that intertwined fame, past relationships, and present perceptions. In particular, Serena Williams, a titan of both sport and style, turned heads not merely by gracing the stage but through her bold choice of accompanying music. By dancing to Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” a song laden with pointed lyrics about her ex-boyfriend Drake, she ignited a flurry of discussions across social media platforms.
Serena’s entrance was electrifying. As she showcased her iconic dance moves during Lamar’s fiery performance, the Super Bowl crowd erupted in applause, unaware of the nuances behind the lyrics they were witnessing. The choice of track—one steeped in diss against Drake, with whom she had a well-documented on-again, off-again relationship from 2011 to 2015—added an unexpected layer of drama to her performance. This not only sparked intrigue but also left audiences questioning the emotional undercurrents of such a public display.
With Drake reportedly a continent away in Australia, performing for his own fans, the situation created a vividly tapped narrative thread that engaged the internet like few moments do. Just hours before Williams’ performance, Drake had delivered a cryptic tirade about his past relationships during his concert. This synchronicity made the timing of Serena’s dance even more significant, framing her as a powerful figure reclaiming her narrative.
Amidst the chaos and speculation, Alexis Ohanian, Serena’s husband and co-founder of Reddit, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share an unequivocal show of support. His tweet celebrating her moment highlighted his unwavering dedication to her: “Pretty fantastic halftime show.” But Alexis was not simply there for applause; he engaged in a deeper conversation about the criticisms Serena faced thereafter.
His remarks were telling—drawing attention to the historical context of criticisms directed at Serena for her performances. Once again, the ghosts of her 2012 Olympic victory resurfaced, where her Crip Walk after defeating Maria Sharapova prompted outcries from conservative commentators about appropriating street culture in a sport with a storied tradition. Alexis didn’t shy away from addressing the double standards that plagued not only his wife but women of color in sports more broadly.
Alexis’s response to criticism was direct and pointed, showcasing how Serena is often caught in an unjust media whirlwind. He highlighted past commentators, including Jason Whitlock, who had previously criticized Serena, labeling his remarks as emblematic of a larger issue. By resurrecting this critique, Alexis effectively drew parallels between past injustices and the current backlash, calling it “faux outrage” that detracted from his wife’s accomplishments and individuality.
The digital discourse that ensued amplified Alexis’ sentiments. Many fans fiercely defended Serena against old narratives, framing her dance as a celebration of resilience and artistry, rather than a disrespectful act. A particularly impassioned response on social media noted how irrelevant criticism about her character was compared to the brilliance of her career and her current triumphs.
The dynamics of Serena’s performance were not lost on viewers, many of whom recognized the layered meanings behind her choices. In a poignant moment, Alexis shared a video where Samuel L. Jackson humorously mimicked the criticisms against Serena, capturing the absurdity of negative reactions from certain quarters. This response encapsulated the cultural commentary that surfaced during the show, whereby the lines between entertainment and societal critique blurred in a powerful display.
For Serena, this halftime performance has come to symbolize a reclamation of her narrative—a metamorphosis from a player often scrutinized to a force celebrated on her own terms. The evolution of her relationship with Alexis has also served as a showcase of mutual respect and unyielding support, fostering a partnership that radiates in each public encounter.
The backdrop of their relationship plays a significant role in framing Serena’s actions. Their story began with a chance meeting in Rome in 2015, and since then, they have become a formidable duo, weathering storms of public scrutiny together. Alexis’ unwavering solidarity reflects the deep-rooted respect and affection they have cultivated. Their family has expanded beautifully, welcoming two daughters, Alexis Olympia and Adira River, whose futures are brightened by the legacy of their parents.
As the dust settled after the Super Bowl, it became clear that the performance was about so much more than mere entertainment. It was an exploration of identity, power, and a celebration of how far Serena has come—both as an athlete and as a person. The stage that night was not just a platform for music; it was a powerful statement that echoed the personal triumphs and challenges that shape the lives of those in the spotlight.