During the 2024 ESPY Awards, Serena Williams sparked controversy by openly criticizing Harrison Butker for his contentious commencement speech at Benedictine College. Williams, on stage with her sister Venus and actress Quinta Brunson, took a sharp jab at the Kansas City Chiefs kicker. As Venus discussed the importance of supporting women’s sports, Serena interjected, “Except you, Harrison Butker. We don’t need you,” with Brunson adding, “At all. Like, ever.” This moment underscored the tensions surrounding Butker’s earlier remarks.
Harrison Butker had stirred national backlash in May with his commencement address, where he encouraged female graduates to prioritize homemaking and child-rearing. His speech, steeped in traditional Catholic values, also included criticisms of the LGBTQ community and President Joe Biden’s pro-abortion stance. These comments ignited significant controversy, particularly among professional women and advocates for gender equality, who saw his views as regressive.
Despite the uproar, Butker stood by his statements, defending them as expressions of his deeply held beliefs. He arrived at the ESPY Awards in a suit and bow tie, yet it remains unclear how he reacted to Serena Williams’ public rebuke. The juxtaposition of his presence at a major sports event celebrating achievements in athletics and Serena’s pointed critique highlighted ongoing cultural debates about gender roles and societal expectations.
Serena Williams, who hosted the ESPYs, continued to captivate the audience with her humor and sharp commentary. Besides addressing the Butker controversy, she delivered a memorable monologue about WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark, drawing a parallel to Larry Bird and noting Clark’s popularity. Serena’s blend of humor and pointed social commentary kept the audience engaged and underscored her role as a leading voice in both sports and social issues.
The incident at the ESPYs highlighted the broader cultural clashes over traditional and modern views on gender roles. Serena’s direct challenge to Butker’s comments emphasized the evolving expectations of women’s roles in society. Her actions at the ESPYs not only reignited the debate but also showcased her commitment to advocating for women’s empowerment and social justice.
