Stephen A. Smith Dismisses Criticism Over Comments on Serena Williams’ Marriage

Serena Williams made headlines with her performance alongside Kendrick Lamar at the Super Bowl, which has inadvertently stirred controversy around Drake’s public persona. This intriguing display of artistry and athleticism hasn’t sat well with some public figures, notably ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith.

During a segment of the First Take podcast, Smith expressed his discontent with Williams’ presence at the event. Unprompted, he voiced a rather curious opinion about how he would react if his partner were to “troll”an ex, although it’s worth noting that Smith is currently not married. He suggested that any partner engaging in such behavior might as well return to their ex, which raised eyebrows about his perspective on relationships.

“If I’m your husband, I’m thinking, ‘Why are you up there trolling him—trolling your ex?’” said Smith.“If I’m married, and my wife is going to troll her ex—go back to his ass. Because clearly you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for—and you with me?” This statement raises a critical question: Should a woman only focus on her current partner, disregarding her past relationships?

Furthermore, his comments extended to singer SZA, another notable figure linked to Drake, where he remarked on the notion of revenge among Drake’s exes.“Everybody knows that she and Drake were together at one time, and it seemed like everyone wanted to get their lick, ”he said. Given Drake’s celebrity status, it seems unlikely that his ex-girlfriends’ playful jabs would genuinely affect him.

The discomfort expressed by men like Smith stems from insecurities regarding women’s pasts and their right to celebrate. Williams and SZA’s performances at such a widely viewed event shouldn’t provoke hostility; rather, they should be seen as empowering moments for women in entertainment and sports. Why does the celebration of two accomplished women elicit ire, especially in a context that doesn’t harm anyone besides perhaps Drake’s ego?

It’s crucial to understand that Williams’ performance encompassed much more than just a playful jibe at her past relationship with Drake; it carried a significant cultural message.

Serena Williams’ Performance: A Dual Narrative

Indeed, Williams’ past involvement with Drake is a part of the narrative. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the broader implications of her performance, particularly the Crip Walk she showcased. This dance also resurfaced memories of her celebratory dance following her victory over Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon, a moment that clinched her Olympic gold.

The backlash Williams faced back then was unreasonable; critics deemed her actions “crass, ”dismissing her celebration of a hard-earned victory. In contrast, Kendrick Lamar’s performance addressed complex themes surrounding race relations and societal divides in America. By showcasing Williams—who has faced discrimination and hostility—on the Super Bowl stage through a dance that provoked such reactions, the intention was clear: it was a powerful statement that transcended her history with Drake.

In the face of criticism from figures like Smith, witnessing Williams on that grand stage, embracing joy and creativity, was a powerful affirmation of her strength not just as an athlete, but as a cultural icon. It was a moment to relish.

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