Serena Williams brought unexpected star power to this year’s Super Bowl halftime show with a memorable dance. The move instantly sparked buzz online, with many celebrities sharing their excitement. But as many celebrate her cameo, they also recall the tense history between her, Drake, and her husband, Alexis Ohanian.

During Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance, Serena Williams surprisingly joined the dancers. The moment quickly gained attention and brought back memories of her similar dance that sparked controversy over a decade ago.

It also reminded many of Serena’s complicated history with rapper Drake, who famously jabbed her husband, Alexis Ohanian, in 2022. Her husband’s response at the time drew widespread praise with his latest reaction showing whose side he’s on.

Serena’s Super Bowl Dance Sparks Celebrity Praise

Serena’s cameo with her dancing the crip walk quickly drew attention, with several celebrities praising her online. Her sister Venus Williams proudly commented, “You did that!!!” Tamar Braxton wrote, “Ate that sis [sic],” while John Legend reacted with fire emojis. Jamie Foxx penned, “Legend.” Lincoln, another commenter, posted, “We see you.”

The crip walk wasn’t just a dance — it was a meaningful reference for Serena. She first performed it after winning gold at the 2012 Olympics, a move that received mixed reactions at the time. Some criticized it as inappropriate, while others saw it as a bold expression of her identity.

Over the years, this moment has symbolized her deep connection to her Compton roots and hip-hop culture. However, her latest performance held a different significance.

Drake’s 2022 Diss: ‘Serena, Your Husband’s a Groupie’

For some, Serena’s dance brought to mind a different public moment involving her and rapper Drake. In 2022, Drake took a jab at her husband, Alexis, in his song “Middle of the Ocean,” rapping, “Sidebar, Serena, your husband a groupie.”

The lyric seemed to allude to the couple’s high-profile relationship and hinted at lingering tension from the past. Drake and Serena’s connection dates back to 2011. They were rumored to be dating at the time.

The speculation returned in 2015 after being spotted at several events, including Serena’s tennis matches. While they never confirmed their relationship, Drake referenced her multiple times in his music, notably in his 2013 song “Worst Behavior.”

The diss in “Middle of the Ocean” marked a sharp turn, directly referencing Serena’s marriage to Alexis, with whom she has two daughters. Though the line surprised fans, Alexis’ response turned the situation into a triumphant moment for the tech entrepreneur.

Alexis’ 2022 Response

Alexis wasted no time responding to Drake’s diss. A few days after the song premiered, he shared a photo of himself with his daughter watching Serena play.

His caption read, “The reason I stay winning is because I’m relentless about being the absolute best at whatever I do — including being the best groupie for my wife & daughter.”

His response subtly reclaimed the term “groupie,” turning it into a badge of honor. Alexis’ words made it clear that he wasn’t bothered by Drake’s lyrics but had fully embraced his role as Serena’s biggest supporter.

Fast forward to 2025, and Alexis once again supported Serena during the Super Bowl. After her crip walk, his reaction was brief but positive, posting on social media, “Pretty fantastic halftime show.”

Though simple, his comment was a subtle nod to Serena’s standout moment and reflected the same supportive attitude he displayed in 2022. Interestingly, Serena’s dance accompanied Kendrick’s Grammy-winning diss track, “Not Like Us.”

Kendrick’s Feud with Drake Takes Center Stage

The song “Not Like Us” wasn’t just a hit. It was the final chapter in Kendrick’s highly publicized feud with Drake. Their rivalry had simmered for years, with both rappers exchanging increasingly personal diss tracks in 2023.

The track topped the Billboard charts and earned Kendrick five Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year. It became one of his most successful songs, further fueled by controversy after Drake filed a lawsuit against Kendrick’s record label. Despite the legal battle, the song’s popularity still grew.

By performing “Not Like Us” at the Super Bowl, one of the most-watched events on American television, Kendrick delivered a bold reminder of his dominance in their lyrical war.

Serena’s Super Bowl appearance was also a bold reminder of her cultural influence, while Alexis’ quiet support reinforced his role as her biggest fan. Whether facing public jabs or celebrating her victories, Alexis remains proudly by her side.