(Photo credit: Evan Agostini/Invision)

Ever since Kendrick Lamar released his flaming diss track, "Not Like Us," aimed at Drake, the internet has been buzzing with reactions. But perhaps the most unexpected response came from retired tennis superstar Serena Williams. The track, filled with sharp lyrics takes direct digs at Drake, Serena's ex. At a recent panel at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture in New Orleans, Serena had some surprising things to say about the song.

Serena's Enthusiastic Reaction

Serena, popularized by her dominance on the tennis court, seemed to be thoroughly enjoying Kendrick's track. When asked about it, she enthusiastically declared, "I love that song. It’s like the hit of the summer. When they play that jam, I’m jamming."

Serena's infectious energy and candidness about her love for the track caught everyone off guard, especially now that it was directed at someone she's allegedly been in a relationship with. The mother of two even joked about the dance moves the song inspires, saying, "You definitely Crip walking in that song. It’s so cool what he did though. Bringing everyone to the stage? That was incredible … I couldn’t believe it."

(Photo credit: Getty Images) Drake with Serena's sister, Venus, at Serena's match

For those not in the loop, Serena's history with Drake is an amalgamation of rumors, public appearances, and lyrical mentions. The pair's connection reportedly began around 2011 when Drake was spotted at Serena's matches. He even hinted at their relationship on Twitter (now X), playfully teasing her about their tennis duels. Over the years, Drake name-dropped Serena in his music, most notably in the song "Worst Behaviour" where he rapped, "I’m with my whole set / Tennis matches at the crib / I swear I could beat Serena when she playin’ with her left."

A History of Public Appearances and Lyrical Mentions

They never officially confirmed their relationship. They attended various events and games together, suggesting their relationship was on and off. Drake's appearances at her matches sparked plenty of speculation, and their rumored romance kept fans excited and talking. Things took a dramatic turn when Drake and rapper Common, who dated Serena before Drake, started throwing lyrical jabs at each other, allegedly over Serena. Common later admitted, "Unfortunately the war might have been over a girl, even though at the time I never said that."

In 2015, videos emerged showing Drake and Serena Williams making out in a Cincinnati restaurant. Rumors about their relationship intensified as they were seen together again later. However, by 2017, the queen of the court had moved on and married Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. The couple welcomed their first child, Alexis Olympia, that same year. This strengthened their status as a power couple.

(Photo credit: Serena Williams Instagram)

Moving Forward with Grace and Humor

Drake, on the other hand, seemed to harbor some lingering feelings. In his 2022 album collaboration with 21 Savage, "Her Loss," he took a fired swipe at Serena's husband. In "Middle Of The Ocean," Drake rapped, "Sidebar, Serena, your husband a groupie / He claim we don’t got a problem but / No, boo, it is, like you comin’ for sushi / We might pop up on ’em at will like Suzuki." Ohanian, never one to shy away from defending his family, responded with a classy yet pointed tweet, "The reason I stay winning is because I’m relentless about being the absolute best at whatever I do-including being the best groupie for my wife & daughter."

Now, with Kendrick's "Not Like Us" adding more spice to the soup, Serena's surprise green light to the track has fans and media buzzing. Her reaction reveals her playful side and exposes her ability to rise above the drama with grace and humor. Momma Smash's support for the diss track can only mean she fully moved on from her past with Drake. Consequently, she focuses more on celebrating her present and future with her family.

Serena's Unwavering Authenticity

The drama between Serena and Drake is a fascinating peek into the lives of two superstars whose worlds collided in exciting ways. While their rumored romance is a thing of the past, the lingering impact on their music and public personas continues to light up media spaces. Serena's reaction to "Not Like Us" is just another chapter in this ongoing story. It demonstrates that she can easily embrace the present with a smile and a dance.

(Photo credit: Alexis Ohanian Sr. Instagram) Alexis Ohanian Sr., Serena Williams, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., and Adira Ohanian.

In the end, Serena Williams remains an icon both on and off the tennis court. Whether she's winning Grand Slams or jamming to the latest hit track, she always manages to stay true to herself. Kendrick Lamar's diss track gained popularity thanks to the former tennis star's unexpected response.