Serena Williams and her husband Alexis Ohanian defend their marriage against criticism over their dance at the Super Bowl

Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, became the focus of news after commentator Stephen A. Smith claimed earlier this week that he would divorce the tennis star if he were in Ohanian’s shoes. This was in response to Williams’ participation with Kendrick Lamar during the Super Bowl 59 halftime show.

To recap, the 23-time Grand Slam winner appeared for about 5 seconds in the performance. However, that was more than enough to capture all the attention thanks to her “crip-walking.”

Social media went wild with her appearance, sparking an online debate. Even ESPN First Take host Stephen A. Smith joined the conversation and involved Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian.

The Context

According to Stephen A. Smith, Serena’s appearance with Kendrick Lamar cast a poor image on the athlete. He expressed that she is now a family woman married to Alexis Ohanian. Therefore, joining in on dissing Drake was not appropriate.

“You could say give her props. If I’m your husband, why are you up there trolling your ex?… If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to him… Clearly you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for and you’re with me? Bye. Bye.” Stephen A. Smith said. He also mentioned that if he were Alexis Ohanian, he would divorce her.

Remember, the tennis star reportedly had a torrid romance with the rapper, although this was never confirmed.

Alexis Ohanian Stands Firm

However, it was Alexis Ohanian himself who defended his marriage from the words and criticisms aimed at his wife. He did so through his X account, where he posted on Sunday, “Pretty fantastic halftime show.”

Pretty fantastic halftime show.

— Alexis Ohanian 🗽 (@alexisohanian) February 10, 2025

To further shut down comments like those of Stephen A., Alexis Ohanian indirectly posted a message discrediting Smith and all of Williams’ critics.

“Some of y’all have no idea how criticized Serena was for this same dance at Wimbledon 13 years ago and it shows…. This is bigger than the music,” expressed Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. He showed his support and cut off the malicious comments about his marriage.