Tennis legend Serena Williams made a surprise appearance during Kendrick Lamar’s electrifying halftime performance at Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans on Sunday, adding an unexpected layer of excitement to an already unforgettable event. Williams, a global icon in the world of sports, joined forces with R&B artist SZA, DJ Mustard, and actor Samuel L. Jackson to support Lamar’s dynamic show. The performance took place at the Caesars Superdome, where Williams, dressed in a striking royal blue outfit, captivated the audience by crip walking to Lamar’s hit song “Not Like Us.” This moment was particularly meaningful, as Williams had previously expressed her love for the song during last summer’s Essence Fest in New Orleans, even admitting that she enjoys crip walking to it. Her appearance at the Super Bowl felt like a full-circle moment, blending her passion for music, culture, and performance on one of the world’s biggest stages.
The song “Not Like Us” itself carries a rich history and has been at the center of a high-profile feud between Lamar and Canadian rapper Drake. Lamar’s track is widely interpreted as a diss aimed at Drake, with many lyrics directly addressing their well-documented rivalry. One of the most striking lines in the song is Lamar’s defense of Williams: “From Alondra down to Central, n***a better not speak on Serena.” This reference to Alondra Boulevard and Central Avenue, both located in Compton, California, where both Lamar and Williams have deep roots, adds a layer of personal and cultural significance to the lyrics. Lamar’s words serve as a protective nod to Williams, subtly warning Drake to refrain from disrespecting her. It’s worth noting that Drake has previously referenced Williams in his music, most famously in his song “Too Good,” which many believe is inspired by their rumored relationship in the 2010s. Drake has also made jabs at Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, in his track “Middle of the Ocean,” further fueling the tension between the two artists.
Lamar’s performance at the Super Bowl was a masterclass in addressing controversy while maintaining artistic integrity. Before launching into “Not Like Us,” he moments earlier mocked a defamation lawsuit Drake had filed against Universal Music Group following the song’s release. Lamar’s words were laced with sarcasm and wit: “I want to play their favorite song, but you know they love to sue.” This public jab at Drake’s legal actions added another layer of drama to the already charged atmosphere of the halftime show. Lamar’s decision to perform the song despite the ongoing feud showcased his confidence and refusal to back down from confronting his detractors. The track itself is a product of the two rappers’ monumental beef, which reached new heights last year. In “Not Like Us,” Lamar repeatedly criticizes Drake, even going so far as to call him a pedophile, while also using the platform to defend Williams and assert his loyalty to his Compton roots.
Williams’ appearance during the performance was a testament to her enduring influence and the deep connections she has built across various industries. Her crip walking to “Not Like Us” was not just a choreographed moment; it was a celebration of culture, resilience, and solidarity. Williams, who has been an icon in the sports world for decades, has always been unafraid to express herself and explore her passions beyond tennis. Her love for the song and her willingness to embrace its energy on such a massive platform highlighted her ability to transcend boundaries and connect with fans in new and exciting ways. Her presence at the Super Bowl also served as a reminder of her impact on popular culture, proving once again that she is more than just a tennis legend—she is a cultural phenomenon.
SZA, who also performed during Lamar’s set, added her own chapter to the evening’s narrative. The R&B star, who is set to embark on a tour with Lamar in April, has her own history with Drake. SZA has publicly acknowledged a brief, “childish” fling with Drake in 2009, when she was still very young. Drake has referenced their past relationship in his music, most notably in his song “Mr. Right Now,” where he raps: “Yeah, said she wanna fuck to some SZA, wait / ’Cause I used to date SZA back in ’08
