Harrison Butker was present inside the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles while Serena Williams hosted the ESPYs. The Kansas City Chiefs placekicker heard every word that the tennis star said about him.
Later, Butker spoke with NBC News about what he thought of Williamsâ statement. Instead of taking a harsh tone, the 28-year-old applauded Williams for being a great host.
I thought Mrs. Williams was a great host and applauded her for using her platform to express her beliefs on a variety of topics.Harrison Butker said
He further praised Williams for being a role model for future generations of athletes and speaking her mind on a big stage like the EPSYs.
Sports are supposed to be the great unifier, and at an event [EPSYs] dedicated to celebrating a diverse group of men and women who have accomplished great feats, she used it as an opportunity to disinvite those with whom she disagrees from supporting fellow athletes.Harrison Butker quipped
The three-time Super Bowl winnerâs response came after Serena Williams called him out on stage for his alleged sexist and misogynistic statements in May.
What did Harrison Butker say that compelled Serena Williams to call him out at ESPYs?
In May, a Catholic institution in Kansas City invited Butker as one of the guest speakers during their convocation. He spoke on various subjects, including taking a jab at President Joe Biden and even mentioning instructions on how modern-day men should act.
These were controversial by themselves, but his thoughts on women and their role in society caused an uproar.
How many of you are sitting here now, about to cross this stage, and are thinking about all the promotions and titles you are going to get in your career? 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.Harrison Butker said in front of a room full of women who were sitting with their graduation certificates in hand
Butker faced criticism from all corners. Celebrity wives of current and former athletes bashed him on social media. Some even labeled him as an individual who was still living in the dark ages.
Despite the initial backlash, he found support from the Chiefs fans, and even his jersey was sold out on the Fanatics website. Even though people were happy with Butker, he still received invitations to institutions for speeches. He was also part of the Chiefs group that visited the White House with the Lombardi Trophy.
