The tennis legend says her halftime performance with Kendrick Lamar was about Compton pride—not relationship drama.

Serena Williams Addresses Super Bowl Speculation

April 16, 2025: Tennis icon Serena Williams is speaking out following speculation that her surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX halftime show was a subtle jab at her ex, Drake. As rumors swirled online, fans questioned whether her performance during a song widely viewed as a diss track toward the rapper was intentional.

But according to Serena, the answer is simple: absolutely not.

“I Would Never Do That”

In a recent interview, Williams set the record straight. “Absolutely not,” she said when asked if her appearance with Kendrick was aimed at Drake. “I would never do that. And that was sad, that anyone would ever think that.”

She went on to explain that despite their history, she’s always maintained a respectful relationship with the rapper. “I have never had negative feelings towards him. We’ve known him for so many years.”

A Tribute to Compton, Not a Personal Message

Serena emphasized that her involvement in the show wasn’t about anyone else—it was about paying homage to her roots. Like Kendrick Lamar, she grew up in Compton, California, and said the moment was more about celebrating that shared history than making any kind of statement.

SZA and kendrick lamar perform ‘all the stars’ at the super bowl pic.twitter.com/XRYaZvbuCm

— 2000s (@PopCulture2000s) February 10, 2025

Mixed Emotions About the Performance

While the performance was a cultural highlight, Serena admitted to feeling uncertain about it afterward. “I don’t know if I regret it or not,” she said. She also revealed that she took two tequila shots before going on stage to ease her nerves.

Meanwhile… Drake’s shows in Australia are looking like this ???? pic.twitter.com/FN5cXJKN6q

— Rap Direct (@RapDirect) February 11, 2025

Drake’s Subtle Response

Following the halftime show, Drake appeared to vent some frustration during one of his concerts, calling out former flames—including Serena and SZA, who also appeared during the performance. Though he didn’t mention names directly, fans speculated that it was in response to the Super Bowl moment.

Moving Forward

Despite the drama, Serena remains focused on her family and her evolving post-tennis life. Recently named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, she continues to shine both on and off the court—unapologetically herself, as always.