The iconic Crip Walk we witnessed at the halftime show carries a deep and mysterious significance—one that goes far beyond a series of flashy moves on the field.
During the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show, tennis legend Serena Williams stole the spotlight with an unexpected performance. As Kendrick Lamar’s powerful track “Not Like Us” set the stage—complete with a pointed diss aimed at Drake—Serena surprised everyone by breaking into the Crip Walk.
This moment wasn’t just a dance; it was a nod to her roots and a statement charged with history and personal meaning.
Where Does Crip Walk Come From?
Originating in the early 1970s in Compton, California, the Crip Walk (or C-Walk) was created by Robert “Sugar Bear” Jackson, a member of the Crips gang. Designed with intricate footwork that spells out “C-R-I-P,” the dance originally served as a covert method for gang members to communicate their identity and mark their territory. Over time, the move evolved, weaving itself into the fabric of hip-hop culture, even as its association with gang violence and territorial claims continues to spark controversy.
Serena’s performance added yet another layer to this complex narrative. Having previously showcased the Crip Walk during the 2012 Wimbledon Championships—a moment that had already stirred debate—she has long defended her choice, insisting it’s merely a form of artistic expression rather than a promotion of violence.
Monday motivation? Monday mood? We’re still thinking about #SerenaWilliams’s iconic C-walk revival at last night’s #SuperBowlHalftimeShow. pic.twitter.com/kyQac51OH1
— Marie Claire (@marieclaire) February 10, 2025
With her Super Bowl cameo, Serena not only celebrated her Compton roots (a shared heritage with Kendrick Lamar) but also sent a subtle message to Drake, hinting at a complicated past and stirring discussions that bridged sports, music, and cultural identity.
Serena Williams’ embrace of the Crip Walk at one of the world’s biggest stages reminds us that sometimes, a dance is more than just a set of steps—it’s a powerful statement of identity, history, and unapologetic self-expression.
