Serena Williams made a surprise appearance at the 2025 Super Bowl, joining Kendrick Lamar during the mid-time show. The tennis legend grew up and trained in Compton, the same city that Kendrick Lamar represents, making them both idols and cultural figures in the community. 
The appearance of Serena Williams has a deeper background, connected to her past issues with Drake. The two had a highly publicized media fight, with some calling it “the last nail in Drake’s coffin.” Kendrick Lamar referenced this feud in his song, mentioning Drake’s demand filed against Universal Music for allegedly promoting Compton’s song. He also addressed the issue of Drake’s past behavior towards Serena Williams, including his boasts of having a romantic relationship with her and his constant harassment.
The History Between Serena Williams and Drake
In 2015! rumors circulated about an alleged romance between Drake and Serena Williams. Although the tennis player never confirmed the relationship, Drake mentioned it in some songs and attended her matches. Photos of them having dinner together also appeared in publications. However, in 2017, Serena married Alexis Ohanian, one of the founders of Reddit, and started a family.
In 2022, Drake mentioned Ohanian in one of his songs, referring to him in a derogatory way. Ohanian responded on social media, saying, “I am tireless to be the best in everything I do, even my wife’s best ground.” This recent history may have contributed to Serena Williams’ decision to support Kendrick Lamar.
Serena Williams praised Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” during the 2024 ESPYS Awards, saying, “If I have learned something this year, it is that none of us, not even one of us, should ever fight with Kendrick Lamar… he will make your hometown not love you.” This public endorsement suggests that Serena Williams is rooting for Kendrick Lamar in his feud with Drake.
The appearance of Serena Williams at the Super Bowl, dancing to Kendrick Lamar’s song “Not Like Us,” can be seen as a direct blow to Drake. The song’s lyrics, which mention Serena Williams and warn others not to speak about her, may have been a factor in her decision to join Kendrick Lamar on stage.
As seen in a tweet from ESPNW, Serena Williams danced to “Not Like Us” alongside other guests, including SZA and Samuel L. Jackson. The reactions to the show were mixed, with some praising the performance and others criticizing it.
In conclusion, Serena Williams’ appearance at the 2025 Super Bowl was not just a surprise performance but also a statement of support for Kendrick Lamar in his feud with Drake. The history between Serena Williams and Drake, including his past behavior towards her, may have contributed to her decision to join Kendrick Lamar on stage.
