Monday was an exciting day for Serena Williams as she was awarded “Sportsperson of the Year” by Sports Illustrated, something that hadn’t happened in 32 years. Surprisingly, there were a lot of horse racing fans that got angry that American Pharoah did not win, although he did win the readers’ vote.
Serena Williams makes American Pharoah joke in middle of ‘Sportsperson of the Year’ acceptance speech
On Tuesday, Williams appeared at the ceremony to give an acceptance speech. The American Pharoah drama ultimately set her up to make a pretty good, off-hand joke about the horse debate, which you can hear at the five-minute mark in the video below:
“I’ve had my shares of ups and downs. I’ve had many struggles. I’ve had blood clots in both my lungs at the same time, and I’ve lived through tragedies and controversies and ... horses.”
[laughter]
“I had to say it! Basically, I’ve been through it all ... um, I’m also a part-time comedian.”
Indeed, she has gone through a lot in her life and career, and whether you’re pro-horse or pro-Serena, you have to admit, it’s nice to hear a lighthearted joke in the middle of a heartfelt speech, especially from someone who’s had to overcome so much adversity.
(h/t Washington Post)
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SB Nation presents: American Pharoah shouldn’t have been named Sportsman of the Year
