Serena Williams jokingly claims college football star Ryan Williams as her "cousin" after 17-year-old's "impressive" heroics to seal win for Alabama
Serena Williams has jokingly claimed a familial connection to rising Alabama Crimson Tide star Ryan Williams following his recent heroics. The 17-year-old wide receiver made waves in the American football community by leading his team to a remarkable victory over Georgia.
During the dramatic game in Tuscaloosa on September 28, Alabama appeared on the verge of a dominant victory, holding a 30-7 lead early in the third quarter. However, Georgia mounted an incredible comeback, wiping out the deficit and taking a 34-33 lead in the fourth quarter with a little over two minutes left on the clock.
Faced with the prospect of a devastating loss after being in a winning position, Alabama freshman Ryan Williams showed off his prowess with an incredible 75-yard touchdown pass. The 17-year-old made a crucial play by catching a pass from quarterback Jalen Milroe with a dramatic spin before sprinting through to score a touchdown, sealing the team's 41-34 win over Georgia.
The viral clip caught the attention of tennis legend Serena Williams, who jokingly referred to Ryan Williams as her cousin and lauded the 17-year-old's "impressive" skills.
"Honestly this is pretty impressive from my 17year old cousin ha go Cuz!" she posted.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion is an avid fan of American football, even owning a stake in the NFL team Miami Dolphins, alongside her sister Venus Williams.
"We don't need you" - Serena Williams took a dig at NFL player Harrison Butker after his controversial comments about women
In July, Serena Williams hosted the 2024 ESPYs, where she seized the opportunity to condemn Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker for his controversial comments about women.
The NFL player sparked controversy during his commencement speech at the Benedictine College in Kansas, expressing his belief that women had been misled by "diabolical lies" and asserting that most women would prefer to be wives and mothers rather than pursue professional careers.
"I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you. Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world," Butker said.
"I can tell you that my beautiful wife Isabelle would be the first to say that her life truly started when she started living her vocation as a wife and as a mother," he added.
During the awards ceremony, Venus Williams urged everyone to watch women's sports, with Serena Williams chiming in to exclude Butker, emphasizing that his support wasn't required.
"So, go ahead and enjoy women's sports like you would any other sports, because they are sports," Venus Williams said.
"Except you, Harrison Butker. We don't need you," Serena Williams chimed in.
Harrison Butker later responded to the 23-time Grand Slam champion's jibe, criticizing her for "disinviting those with whom she disagrees from supporting fellow athletes."