Alexis Ohanian Confronts Stephen A. Smith on ESPN Over Serena Williams Remarks

Alexis Ohanian directly confronted Stephen A. Smith on live television. The Reddit co-founder appeared on ESPN’s “First Take” this week. He used the platform to address Smith’s past criticism of his wife, tennis legend Serena Williams.

The tense exchange stemmed from comments Smith made months earlier. He had questioned Williams’ participation in a Super Bowl halftime performance linked to her ex, Drake. Ohanian’s response highlighted the personal nature of the unsolicited advice.

Ohanian Fires Back on National Television

The moment unfolded during a broader sports discussion. Ohanian pivoted to address the ESPN personality directly. “Also, too, Stephen A. Smith, I think you had some marriage advice for me. Is that right?” Ohanian asked.

Smith quickly attempted to deflect the question. He stated he was “not qualified” to give marital advice. Ohanian then delivered his pointed retort. He noted that Smith had never been married, drawing a parallel to his own area of expertise.

He explained that he advises founders on building billion-dollar companies because he has done it himself. According to reports from ESPN, Ohanian concluded by saying he generally tries to “stay in my lane in the advice department.”

The Origins of the Sports Media Spat

The conflict began with the Super Bowl halftime show. Smith had publicly criticized Serena Williams for appearing in Kendrick Lamar’s performance. Lamar’s song “Not Like Us” is known for its feud with Drake, who dated Williams in the past.

Smith’s original remarks were blunt. He suggested that a married person should not involve themselves in “trolling” an ex-partner. His commentary sparked significant discussion on social media and sports talk shows at the time.

Williams herself later addressed the situation in an interview with TIME. She stated she was “absolutely not” taking a jab at Drake. She explained the performance was a tribute to their shared hometown of Compton, California.

Thought you’d like to know

What did Stephen A. Smith originally say about Serena Williams?

He criticized her Super Bowl appearance with Kendrick Lamar. Smith implied it was inappropriate for a married woman to engage with content related to an ex-partner. His comments were made on his ESPN show months prior.

How did Alexis Ohanian respond on “First Take”?

Ohanian questioned Smith’s qualifications to give marriage advice. He pointed out that Smith has never been married. He contrasted this with his own practice of only advising on topics where he has proven success.

What was Serena Williams’ explanation for the performance?

Williams stated the collaboration was planned well in advance. She said it was meant to honor Compton, California. She explicitly denied any intention of targeting her ex, Drake.

Who are the trusted sources for this story?

This report is based on coverage from ESPN and an interview published by TIME. These sources provided verified accounts of the on-air exchange and Williams’ own statements.

When did Alexis Ohanian and Serena Williams get married?

The couple married in November 2017. They have two children together. Their family life has often been a subject of public interest.