In a moment that caught everyone’s attention, tennis legend Serena Williams made a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LVII halftime show. While some fans cheered her on, not everyone was happy about her dance, which sparked mixed reactions online. Her devoted husband, Alexis Ohanian, quickly jumped to her defense, reminding everyone of the challenges she has faced in the spotlight.
Serena Williams’ Memorable Halftime Show
The halftime show took place on February 12, 2023, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, where Williams joined Lamar on stage. With her lively dance moves to his hit song “Not Like Us,” she lit up the performance. Her excitement was evident, as she shared her joy on social media, expressing how much fun she had being part of the event, a feeling that resonated with many fans.
A Husband’s Support Amidst Criticism
However, not all the feedback was positive. Some commentators, including well-known sports personality Stephen A. Smith, criticized Williams for her dancing style, drawing parallels to an earlier controversy during the 2012 London Olympics. In response to the backlash, Alexis Ohanian took to Twitter, where he highlighted similar criticisms Serena faced in the past for the same dance. He praised her bravery for continuing to express herself despite the negativity.
A Brief Dance Stirring Up Old Controversies
What made it even more interesting was that, when Williams did the “crip walk” during the Super Bowl performance, it reminded some people of when she danced in the Olympics, which previously sparked debates about the cultural implications of her moves. Critics had accused her of glorifying gang culture back then, which added more fuel to the fire this time around. Ohanian pointed out how ridiculous it was for people to still criticize her for her dancing after all this time.
Sharing the Spotlight: Their Love Story
While the couple’s journey began when they met in 2015 at a hotel in Rome, their bond grew strong and they married in 2017. Since then, they have built a beautiful family, welcoming two daughters, Alexis Olympia and Adira River. Their relationship is often celebrated for its strong partnership, where both support each other’s careers and ambitions passionately.
Alexis Ohanian: More Than Just a Cheerleader
Alexis is not just known as the husband of Serena Williams but is also recognized for his accomplishments as co-founder of Reddit. Over the years, he has not only built a successful career in the tech industry but has also become a vocal advocate for paternity leave and other important social issues. His support for Serena during tough times only highlights his dedication as a partner and father.
Standing Up for What’s Right
After the Super Bowl performance, Alexis has again stepped into the public eye to advocate for his wife. He plays an essential role in standing up for not just Serena but also the idea of courage in who we are and how we present ourselves to the world, even when critics may come knocking. He reminds everyone that it’s essential to back those we love, particularly in the face of unfair judgment.
What’s Next for the Dynamic Duo?
As fans eagerly await Serena’s next moves on and off the court, one thing is certain: Alexis Ohanian will be right by her side, cheering her on every step of the way. Their powerful support for each other continues to inspire many and serves as a reminder to celebrate our differences and passions!
