Tennis legend Serena Williams made waves at the Super Bowl on Sunday when she made a surprise cameo during rapper Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance. The 23-time Grand Slam champion wowed the audience by showcasing her crip walk, a dance move that originated in Los Angeles and has long been associated with hip-hop culture. Williams’ energetic moves were a nod to her and Lamar’s shared LA roots, adding an extra layer of significance to the moment.
A Flashback to Wimbledon Controversy
While Serena Williams’ dance at the Super Bowl was met with cheers, it also brought back memories of a past controversy. During the 2012 London Olympics, Williams celebrated her gold medal victory over Maria Sharapova by performing a crip walk on the Wimbledon grass. The move sparked criticism, with some arguing that it glorified gang culture. However, Williams defended herself at the time, insisting, “It was just a dance.”
This time, Williams addressed the resurfaced controversy in a lighthearted manner. In a video she posted on X from backstage at the Super Bowl, she laughed and said, “Man, I did not crip walk like that at Wimbledon. Oh, I would’ve been fined!” She reassured fans that her Super Bowl dance was “all love,” emphasizing the celebratory nature of the moment.
The Crip Walk’s Cultural Significance
The crip walk originated in the 1970s in Los Angeles, created by members of the Crips street gang. Over time, it was embraced by hip-hop artists and dancers, becoming a symbol of LA culture. Serena Williams’ use of the dance move has sparked debates over its meaning, with some critics condemning it while others argue that its mainstream adoption has given it a new, positive identity.
Williams, a proud Compton native, has always been vocal about her love for her roots. Over the years, she has supported several initiatives in her hometown, reinforcing her deep connection to LA culture. Her Super Bowl appearance alongside Lamar, another influential figure from the city, was a powerful tribute to their shared heritage.
A Connection to Kendrick Lamar’s Performance
Another layer of intrigue surrounding Williams’ Super Bowl appearance was her past connection to rapper Drake. The Canadian artist has had a long-standing rivalry with Lamar, which reached a peak during the recent Grammy Awards. Lamar performed his hit diss track “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl, in which he seemingly references Williams, warning Drake to “better not speak on Serena.”
Williams, who was once rumored to have dated Drake, has long moved past the speculation. Since 2017, she has been happily married to Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, with whom she shares two daughters. While her presence at the event stirred curiosity among fans, Williams kept her focus on celebrating the moment rather than addressing any past drama.
Serena Williams’ Legacy Beyond Tennis
Serena Williams’ Super Bowl cameo proved once again that she is more than just a tennis icon. Whether it’s through her legendary performances on the court or her cultural impact off it, Williams continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Her crip walk at the halftime show was not just a dance—it was a statement of pride, resilience, and an undeniable connection to her roots.
As fans continue to celebrate her illustrious career, Williams remains a symbol of excellence, not just in tennis but in sports and entertainment as a whole. With her recent Super Bowl moment, she once again reminded the world why she is a true icon.
