Humor and Sharp Commentary at the ESPYs
Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion, hosted the 2024 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles, delivering a monologue filled with humor and pointed commentary.
The controversial joke
Williams’ monologue, performed at the Dolby Theatre, included a joke about WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark that sparked significant social media reaction. Introducing Clark, the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Williams said, “Caitlin Clark had an amazing year and is nominated for three awards. You are the Larry Bird in that you are an amazing player, you have ties to Indiana, and white people are really crazy about you.”
Clark, who plays for the Indiana Fever, was unable to attend the awards due to a game in Indianapolis. She had a stellar rookie season and was nominated for Best Women’s Athlete, Best Record-Breaking Performance, and Best Women’s College Athlete.
The joke quickly became a hot topic online, eliciting mixed reactions. Some users criticized Williams, with one tweeting, “Shame on you, @serenawilliams. What a disgusting comment. Do better.” Others defended her, with one user responding, “It was a joke, it was not that serious.”
The conversation on social media continued, with some expressing disbelief and others lamenting the focus on race. One comment read, “Serena is loved by all. Why does she have to bring color to the conversation? We’re all the same regardless of color or background. It’s just sad.”
More jokes and roasts
Williams’ monologue also touched on other subjects, including the feud between rappers Kendrick Lamar and Drake, Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter’s financial mishap, and the disproportionate coverage of women’s sports on ESPN.
“Get up. Get off the TikTok. Work hard. See how capable you are. Be great. Be so great they don’t want to believe in you. Then, be greater. After all of that…still don’t pick a fight with Kendrick,” she quipped.
Williams didn’t spare anyone, including LeBron James, in her roasting spree, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
