Serena Williams avoids Taylor Swift during Super Bowl, prioritizes friendship respect

Serena Williams revealed she intentionally avoided approaching Taylor Swift at the 2025 Super Bowl, out of respect for Swift’s emotional state as the Kansas City Chiefs lost to the Philadelphia Eagles. Williams, attending the game with her husband Alexis Ohanian and daughter Olympia, had hoped to get an autograph from Swift for her daughter but reconsidered upon witnessing Swift being booed by some spectators and recognizing the pressures Swift faced in the moment. Drawing from her own experiences with high-stakes competition, Williams empathized with Swift, stating it is difficult when your team is losing and choosing to give her space was a gesture of kindness rather than distance. Williams also publicly defended Swift against the boos, describing them as mean and unnecessary. The incident has been highlighted as an example of Williams’ empathy and understanding of the unique challenges public figures encounter. Both women have expressed mutual admiration in the past, and Williams’ decision was rooted in respect and solidarity.