Serena Williams, the tennis icon, hosted the 2024 ESPY Awards and delivered a series of jokes that had the audience cheering. Among the highlights was her playful jab at rapper Drake, which became one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
Williams’ playful poke at Drake
During her monologue, Williams touched on the recent rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, humorously commenting on the situation by saying, “If I’ve learned anything this year, it is that none of us, not a single one of us, not even me, should ever pick a fight with Kendrick Lamar. He will make your hometown not like you.” This remark came right before Kendrick’s diss track “Not Like Us” played, eliciting cheers from the crowd.
She continued the jest by suggesting that the Toronto Raptors might disown Drake the next time he appears courtside, much to the audience’s amusement.
Reactions from social media
The internet quickly lit up with reactions, and fans praised Williams for her sharp wit. Comments ranged from support for Williams’ comeback to Drake’s previous remarks about her husband, Alexis Ohanian, to fans calling it a full circle moment for Kendrick and Drake’s rap battles.
The backstory of Drake and Williams’ tension
The tension between Williams and Drake dates back to when Drake mentioned Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, in his track “Middle Of The Ocean,” calling him a groupie. This sparked a series of back-and-forths, with Ohanian responding proudly about his role as a supportive partner and father.
This playful exchange at the ESPYs not only entertained but also underscored Serena Williams’ enduring influence and charisma, both on and off the tennis court.
