Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

## Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

During her opening monologue at the ESPYs, tennis legend Serena Williams made a playful joke about the debate surrounding Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark's unprecedented popularity in the WNBA.

Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

Serena Williams' hosting gig at the ESPYs on Thursday night was marked by her characteristic wit and humor. In her opening monologue, she took a playful jab at the debate surrounding Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark's popularity in the WNBA.

After recognizing Clark for her three nominations, including best women's athlete of the year, Williams said, "Caitlin Clark has had an amazing year and is nominated for three awards. Caitlin, you are the Larry Bird in that you are an amazing player, you have ties to Indiana, and White people are really crazy about you."

Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

The remark was met with laughter from the audience, but it also had a deeper meaning. Williams' comparison to Bird, an NBA legend who is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, was a testament to Clark's talent and potential.

It also underscored the fact that Clark has become a polarizing figure in the WNBA. Some fans and observers have criticized her for her perceived arrogance and for benefiting from unfair treatment. Others have praised her for her prodigious talent and her ability to connect with fans.

Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

Williams' joke seemed to acknowledge the controversy surrounding Clark while also poking fun at the notion that her popularity is solely due to her race. In fact, Clark has earned her fans through her exceptional play on the court.

Over the weekend, the former Iowa star dropped 19 points, handed out 13 assists and grabbed 12 rebounds to become the first rookie in WNBA history to record a triple-double. She also received the most votes for the WNBA All-Star Game, and this week, she became the first WNBA player to get at least 25 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, five steals, and five 3-pointers in a single game.

Serena Williams Jokes About Caitlin Clark's Popularity at ESPYs

Despite losing the best women's athlete of the year award to Las Vegas Aces star A'ja Wilson, Clark won two awards for record-breaking performance in becoming the NCAA's all-time career scoring leader, and as best college athlete, for her Iowa basketball career.

In a videotaped acceptance speech, Clark said, "I'm a little bit busy in Indianapolis. It was a special year in women's athletics."

Williams' joke about Clark was just one of many highlights from her ESPYs hosting debut. She opened the show with a rousing monologue that celebrated women's sports and poked fun at her husband, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. She also presented the award for best male athlete of the year to Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.

Williams' performance at the ESPYs was a reminder of her status as one of the most iconic and influential figures in sports. She is a champion on and off the court, and her humor and wit make her a joy to watch.