NFL Player Harrison Butker Faces Backlash Over Controversial Speech Attacked by Serena Williams at ESPY Awards

NFL kicker Harrison Butker has found himself embroiled in controversy after his controversial remarks during a commencement speech at Benedictine College were criticized by tennis legend Serena Williams at the ESPY Awards.

Williams, alongside her sister Venus Williams and comedian Quinta Brunson, took a jab at Butker during the awards show, highlighting his views on women as ‘homemakers’ and his conservative stance on various societal issues.

The moment unfolded at the prestigious ESPY Awards where Butker was in attendance, but his reaction to Williams’ comments was not captured on camera.

Butker, a member of the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL, faced backlash earlier for his comments on abortion, LGBTQ+ Pride month, and women’s roles in society during his speech at Benedictine College.

His remarks sparked widespread debate, with fellow athletes and the NFL distancing themselves from Butker’s personal views expressed during the graduation address.

Responding to the incident, Butker acknowledged Williams’ right to express her opinion but criticized the use of sports as a platform for division rather than unity.

The controversy surrounding Butker’s speech at Benedictine College in May resurfaced at the ESPY Awards, where Williams and her peers used the platform to call out the NFL star’s controversial statements.

Notably, the Regina Caeli Academy gala where Butker defended his speech was also referenced, showing the ongoing debate and reaction to his remarks within the public and sporting communities.