Serena Williams addresses comeback rumors
Tennis legend Serena Williams denied any plans to return to professional tennis. However, reports had linked her to the sport’s drug-testing pool, sparking widespread speculation.
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion last competed at the 2022 US Open. A third-round loss left her one short of the all-time record of 24 Grand Slam singles wins, which is held by Margaret Court and Novak Djokovic.
Drug test listing sparks speculation
Her name appeared on the Registered Testing Pool of the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), the sport’s anti-doping body. Adrian Bassett, ITIA spokesperson, confirmed her registration but added that they had no other information regarding a potential comeback.
Meanwhile, Williams quickly responded on X (formerly Twitter) to dismiss the rumors. “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy,” she wrote.
“Evolving” away from tennis
Following her US Open loss, Serena said she was “evolving” rather than retiring. Athletes in the Registered Testing Pool must provide details of their whereabouts and also undergo six months of testing before returning to competition.
Her older sister, Venus Williams, returned to professional tennis in July at age 45 after nearly two years away from the WTA tour. In addition, Venus expressed hope Serena might rejoin her. Together, they had won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic gold medals.
“The only thing that would make this better is if she was here,” Venus said, highlighting their historic partnership.
Serena Williams’ legacy remains unmatched
Even without competing, Serena Williams holds an extraordinary legacy in tennis. Therefore, she remains one of the most celebrated athletes in the sport’s history.
