The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show was one for the books, but one moment stole the spotlight: Serena Williams performing the Crip Walk alongside Kendrick Lamar. While the dance move sparked controversy and viral debates, it also brought to light a deeply personal and tragic chapter in Serena’s life—one tied to her sister, Yetunde Price, who was brutally killed by a gang member in Compton, California.
The Crip Walk: A Dance with a Dark History
The Crip Walk originated as a form of communication among members of the Crips, a notorious street gang in California. The intricate footwork, often spelling out “C-R-I-P,” was later adopted into mainstream culture by rappers and performers. However, its roots remain deeply tied to gang culture and the violent history of Los Angeles.
For Serena, the dance holds a bittersweet connection. Her sister, Yetunde Price, was tragically shot and killed in 2003 by a member of a gang in Compton, the same city where the Crips were born. Yetunde’s death left an indelible mark on the Williams family, and Serena’s decision to perform the dance at the Super Bowl has left fans questioning its significance.
Serena’s Super Bowl Moment: Celebration or Controversy?
During Kendrick Lamar’s electrifying halftime performance, Serena joined him on stage, showcasing the Crip Walk to a global audience. While some saw it as a celebration of culture and resilience, others criticized it as insensitive, given the dance’s gang-related origins.
This isn’t the first time Serena has faced backlash for the move. In 2012, she performed the Crip Walk at Wimbledon, sparking outrage and questions about her intentions. At the time, Serena defended herself, stating, “It was just a dance. I didn’t know what it was called.”
But at the Super Bowl, the context felt different. With Kendrick Lamar—a vocal critic of gang violence and a symbol of West Coast pride—by her side, Serena’s performance seemed to carry a deeper message. Was it a tribute to her sister? A statement on overcoming adversity? Or simply a nod to the culture that shaped her upbringing?
The Drake Connection: A Subtle Dig?
Adding another layer to the drama, fans speculated whether Serena’s appearance was a subtle jab at Drake, Kendrick Lamar’s longtime rival. Drake and Serena have been rumored to have a complicated history, with the rapper referencing her in songs like Middle of the Ocean and Too Good.
One fan tweeted, “Kendrick brought out Serena Williams to do the Crip Walk in front of millions. That man is calculated and ruthless.” Whether intentional or not, the moment added fuel to the ongoing feud between Kendrick and Drake, making it one of the most talked-about moments of the night.
A Tribute to Yetunde: Healing Through Dance?
While the Crip Walk controversy continues to dominate headlines, many are reflecting on Serena’s personal journey and the loss of her sister. Yetunde Price’s death was a devastating blow to the Williams family, and Serena has often spoken about how it shaped her perspective on life and success.
Could her Super Bowl performance have been a tribute to Yetunde, a way to reclaim a dance tied to the streets that took her sister’s life? Or was it simply a celebration of her roots and resilience? Whatever the intention, Serena’s Crip Walk has reignited conversations about culture, history, and the power of dance to tell a story.
Final Thoughts: A Viral Moment with Layers of Meaning
Serena Williams’ Crip Walk at the Super Bowl was more than just a dance—it was a moment layered with history, emotion, and cultural significance. As fans continue to dissect its meaning, one thing is clear: Serena remains unapologetically herself, using her platform to spark conversations and honor her past.
