The ongoing rap feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has transcended the music industry, making its mark on various facets of society.
Most recently, tennis sensation Naomi Osaka found herself drawn into the conversation following her victory over Clara Burel at the Italian Open on Wednesday.
In a post-match interview, Osaka, known for her prowess on the court and her candidness off it, declared herself a “pacifist” and “neutral party” in the ongoing beef before ultimately revealing her allegiance to Kendrick Lamar.
“Kendrick dropped some heat, that last song,” the four-time Grand Slam title champion remarked, referring to Lamar’s track “Not Like Us.” “That last song is amazing, and I played it walking onto the court.”
When probed about whether Kendrick should release another song, Osaka didn’t hesitate, stating, “Yeah. Sorry.” Delving into the technicalities of the feud, she pointed out, “Technically, Kendrick dropped that song, then Drake dropped ‘The Heart Part 6,’ so technically Kendrick could drop another two if he wanted to.”
Osaka also echoed a sentiment from Drake’s own lyrics in “The Heart Part 6,” where he acknowledges Kendrick’s impact on the rap landscape.
“Me being a Kendrick fan, I haven’t gotten this many Kendrick songs in a very long time,” Osaka reflected. “So, you know, if he wants to keep dropping.”
