Serena Williams is sparking fresh comeback rumors after expressing an open-minded stance toward returning to professional tennis. Nearly four years after her “evolution” away from the court at the 2022 US Open, the legendary 23-time Grand Slam singles champion has refused to rule out a competitive resurgence. During a recent interview on NBC’s The Today Show, Williams remained non-committal about her retirement status, fueling speculation that the 44-year-old icon may be preparing for one final run on the WTA tour.
The conversation surrounding a potential return gained significant momentum following reports that Williams has quietly re-entered the sport’s mandatory drug-testing pool. While she previously took to social media in late 2025 to dismiss comeback “wildfires,” her tone during the latest televised appearance was notably more ambiguous. “I’m just having fun and enjoying my life right now. That’s not a yes or no. I don’t know. I’m just gonna see what happens,” she shares. When pressed on whether she was planning a return for the 2026 season, Williams noted, “I have two kids. I’m a full-time stay at home [mother]. When I filled out a form the other day. Occupation? [I wrote] housewife.”
Williams was then asked about her name being included in the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s Registered Testing Pool document that was published in October 2025. “Did I re-enter? I don’t know if I was out,” she answered. “Listen, I can’t discuss this.”
Current world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has already voiced support for the potential return, noting that Williams’ personality and presence would be a major asset to the tour. The tennis community remains on high alert as the prospect of a doubles reunion with her sister, Venus Williams, also remains a point of interest for fans and analysts alike. Despite her age and lengthy hiatus, the physical condition and competitive pedigree of the American superstar continue to keep the door open for what would be one of the most significant returns in sporting history
