Harrison Butker is responding to Serena Williams’ criticism of him at the 2024 ESPY Awards, which was directed against his controversial opinions.
The kicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, who is 28 years old, issued a statement on Friday, July 12, in reaction to Serena, who is 42 years old, making fun of him at the awards event. This criticism came after the kicker made remarks about women during a graduation address on May 11.
According to NBC Sports, Butker added in his statement, “I thought Mrs. Williams was a great host and applaud her for using her platform to express her beliefs on a variety of topics.” Butker’s comment was received by NBC Sports.
“Sports are supposed to be the great unifier, and at an event dedicated to celebrating a diverse group of men and women who have accomplished great feats,” he added. “Sports are supposed to bring so many people together.” In order to prevent anyone with whom she disagrees from showing support for other athletes, she took advantage of the chance presented to her.
As she made her appearance onstage with her sister, Venus Williams, and Quinta Brunson on Thursday, July 11, Serena Williams made a direct reference to Butker at the sports ceremony, which he was also there for.
Brunson, who is 34 years old, made the statement as the three of them talked a successful year in athletics. This is a year that has a great deal of firsts. A World Series championship was won by the Texas Rangers, while the Florida Panthers were crowned Stanley Cup champions for the first time.
After that, the celebrities spoke “on how to properly enjoy” sports, including the fact that “you can root for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.” Following this, Venus, who is 44 years old, summarized the conversation by saying, “So go ahead and enjoy women’s sports like you would any other sport.”
Then, Serena chimed in and said, “With the exception of you, Harrison Butker.” Brunson continued by saying, “We have absolutely no need for you.” The phrase “like, ever”
It was possible to hear claps and booing from the crowd in response to the punchline, even if Butker’s response to the remarks was not captured on video.
The jab that Serena and Brunson made came up as a result of Butker’s controversial remarks that he made at a commencement speech at Benedictine College. During that time period, he made a number of statements, including some that were critical of the LGBTQ+ community, working women, and abortion rights.
At the ESPY Awards, which took place on Thursday, the National Football League player made a solo presentation in support of three nominations that he got in regard to his club. These categories were best franchise in the NFL, best NFL player, and best athlete (for Patrick Mahomes).