Tennis has missed Serena Williams. Three years ago, one of the greatest players of all time hung up her racket, and since then, no one has come close to filling the void she left behind. That could change very soon-at least, according to the latest media speculation.
The younger of the Williams sisters said goodbye to the courts in September 2022, after a legendary 17-year career. During that time, the American star captured 73 singles titles, including 23 Grand Slam championships.
She also won the 1999 Grand Slam Cup, claimed the WTA Tour Finals four times, and earned Olympic gold in 2012. Her singles record stands at 858-156, while in doubles she finished with an impressive 192-35.
Since retiring, Serena has devoted her time to her husband, Alexis Ohanian, and her daughters, Olympia and Adira, and her business ventures. Yet fans and media outlets have spotted a detail that suggests she may be preparing for a comeback.
Clues to Serena’s imminent return
Reports indicate that Serena Williams’ name has reappeared in the International Registered Testing Pool (IRTP) of the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA).
The ITIA, created in 2021 by the ATP, WTA, ITF, and the Grand Slams, is an independent body that safeguards the integrity of tennis. One of its key responsibilities is administering anti-doping tests to active players.
Analysts and fans believe this could signal a comeback, since players must undergo six months of doping control before returning to competition.
If the speculation proves true, Serena could return in the first half of 2026-or by early 2027 at the latest. Importantly, Williams herself has said she doesn’t consider herself retired.
Serena says there’s a good chance of a comeback
Although she hasn’t officially announced a return, Williams has previously insisted she isn’t retired. “I am not retired. The chances of me returning are very high,” she declared at a technology event in 2022.
She admitted she hadn’t seriously considered a comeback but noted that she has a court at home. “I did go on the court the other day and realized, for the first time in my life, that I’m not playing for competition.”
Serena described the revelation as strange, adding: “It was like the first day of the rest of my life, and so far, I am enjoying it. But I’m still trying to find that balance.”
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