The 23-time Grand Slam winner appeared for less than five seconds, but captured the world’s attention with her crip-walking skills (a dance that was popularized by gang members in Compton, California, where both Lamar and Williams were raised) during the rendition of ‘Not Like Us’.
Her brief cameo sparked some debate online, especially considering Lamar’s song is a diss track toward the rapper Drake, whom Williams reportedly dated in 2011, even though they never publicly confirmed their alleged romance.
ESPN First Take regular Stephen A. Smith reacted to Williams’ appearance on Monday’s episode of the in-studio sports show, and didn’t hold back.
Smith said it was poor look for the tennis legend to join in on dissing Drake given she now has a family of her own and was romantically involved with him nearly 15 years ago.
“You could say give her props. If I’m your husband, why are you up there trolling your ex?” Smith said.
“If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his a**.
“Cause clearly you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for and you’re with me? Bye. Bye.”
Smith’s co-host Ryan Clark responded, “If you were with Serena Williams, you’re going to be a kept man anyways. Don’t start that.”
