Serena Williams delivers unfiltered Caitlin Clark joke during ESPYs monologue

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Nothing was off limits for tennis legend Serena Williams as she hosted the ESPYs in Los Angeles on Thursday night. 

During her opening monologue, Williams recognized Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark for the three nominations she received, including best women's athlete of the year. 

Caitlin Clark, #22 of the Indiana Fever, is seen following the game against the New York Liberty at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 6, 2024 in Indianapolis. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images)

Despite first praising the WNBA’s first overall pick, Williams made a joke about the debate surrounding Clark’s unprecedented popularity in the league. 

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"Caitlin Clark has had an amazing year and is nominated for three awards. Caitlin, you are the Larry Bird in that you are an amazing player, you have ties to Indiana, and White people are really crazy about you." 

However, Williams’ remark in jest follows her recent advice to Clark, when she suggested that the root of the controversy surrounding her pro debut stems from jealousy. 

Host Serena Williams speaks on stage during the 2024 ESPY Awards at Dolby Theatre on July 11, 2024 in Hollywood, California. (Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for W+P)

"I just love that she tried to stay grounded and that she doesn't ... look at her social [media]," Williams told The Associated Press last month on the red carpet for the premier of her new docuseries. 

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"I get it. I don't either. And I think it's so important to continue doing what she's doing. And no matter what other