Serena Williams Teases Drake with Kendrick Lamar Reference During 2024 ESPYs

Serena Williams humorously referenced the historic rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar during her opening monologue at the 2024 ESPY Awards, playfully highlighting her allegiance to Lamar and poking fun at Drake.

At the 2024 ESPY Awards on June 11, Serena Williams, the tennis legend, and host, added a humorous twist to her opening monologue by referencing the famed rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. The playful jab was particularly amusing given Williams’ past association with Drake.

Williams quipped, “If I’ve learned anything this year, it’s that none of us — not a single one of us, not even me — should ever pick a fight with Kendrick Lamar.” As Kendrick’s diss track “Not Like Us” played in the background, she continued, “He will make your hometown not like you. The next time Drake sits courtside at a Raptors game, they’re gonna Forrest Gump him. Seats taken!”

This light-hearted moment underscores the lingering impact of the Drake-Lamar feud, which has continued to inspire jokes and cultural references long after the initial disputes have settled. Williams’ allegiance to Lamar is perhaps unsurprising, given a past incident involving her husband, Alexis Ohanian. In 2022, Drake called Ohanian a “groupie” in his track “Middle of the Ocean” from the album “Her Loss.” Ohanian later responded on social media, embracing the term and stating his commitment to being the best supporter for his wife and daughter.

Lamar, standing by Serena, also warned Drake in “Not Like Us” to “better not speak on Serena,” further solidifying the connection between Williams and Lamar. This playful moment at the ESPYs not only entertained the audience but also highlighted the ongoing cultural relevance of the Drake-Lamar rivalry.