The ESPYs took a surprising turn on Thursday night when tennis superstar Serena Williams took a jab at Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker during the celebration of women’s sports. The controversy surrounding Butker began when he gave a commencement speech at Benedictine College, encouraging female graduates to embrace being a “homemaker.” This sparked backlash and debate about gender roles and opportunities for women in professional fields.
At the ESPYs, Serena Williams, along with her sister Venus and actress Quinta Brunson, were on stage celebrating women’s sports. While Venus spoke about the importance of women’s sports, Serena couldn’t resist taking a shot at Butker, saying, “Except for you, Harrison Butker, we don’t need you.” The comment drew a positive reaction from the crowd and added fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding Butker’s controversial remarks.
Despite the backlash, Butker remained unapologetic for his speech, stating that he is focused on pleasing Jesus Christ rather than seeking approval from others. His jersey sales have since skyrocketed on NFL Shop, indicating that he still has a strong fan base despite the controversy.
Butker, who helped the Chiefs win back-to-back Super Bowl titles, has become a polarizing figure in the media due to his outspoken beliefs. The debate surrounding his remarks continues to divide opinions, with many questioning the intersection of sports, gender roles, and personal beliefs.
