Home / Sports / Reddit Co-Founder Shuts Down Stephen A. Smith's Criticism of Serena Williams' Super Bowl Halftime Show
Reddit Co-Founder Shuts Down Stephen A. Smith's Criticism of Serena Williams' Super Bowl Halftime Show
12 Oct, 2025
Summary
- Alexis Ohanian, Serena Williams' husband, confronts Stephen A. Smith on his marriage advice
- Ohanian defends Williams' Super Bowl halftime performance, which Smith had criticized
- Ohanian says he is qualified to give advice on building billion-dollar companies, not marriages
In February 2025, sports commentator Stephen A. Smith made headlines when he claimed he would divorce his wife if she joined Serena Williams in "trolling her ex" during the Super Bowl halftime show. Now, eight months later, Ohanian has confronted Smith on his comments.
During an episode of ESPN's First Take, Ohanian, 42, directly addressed Smith's previous remarks. He questioned Smith's credibility to offer marital advice, noting that he himself provides guidance to founders building billion-dollar companies because he has done it himself. Ohanian was a vocal supporter of Williams' Super Bowl performance, posting messages on social media praising her appearance.
Williams herself brushed off the criticism at the time, saying she didn't "care" about it. Ohanian has also previously defended his wife's halftime show appearance, confronting columnist Jason Whitlock who had criticized Ohanian as a "true beta" after the performance.
The ongoing debate highlights the public scrutiny and commentary surrounding high-profile athletes and their personal lives. Ohanian's defense of his wife showcases his commitment to supporting her and challenging those who seek to undermine her achievements.
