Serena Williams has not played since losing to Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round of the US Open in 2022

Serena Williams Sparks Comeback Rumours After Rejoining Drug Testing Pool

Serena Williams Hints at Comeback After Rejoining Drug Testing Pool

Tennis icon Serena Williams has reignited speculation about a return to the court after confirming her presence in the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) drug testing pool.

Though she officially retired after the 2022 US Open, the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion’s name has continued to appear on the ITIA’s active player list — most recently in both October and December 2025 updates.

Speaking on the Today Show, the 44-year-old playfully dodged confirmation of a return, telling host Savannah Guthrie:

“I don’t know, I’m just going to see what happens… I want to go to bed.”

Comeback Timeline and Testing Rules

Under ITIA rules, players must be in the testing pool for at least six months before returning to competition. Williams’ listing since October 6 means she could technically return by April 2026.

Asked directly if she had re-entered the testing pool, Williams smiled and said:

“I don’t know if I was out. Listen, I can’t discuss this.”

While vague, her comments have left fans and pundits excited at the prospect of a farewell return — perhaps in doubles with her sister Venus Williams, who at 45 is still active on the tour.

Reactions from the Tennis World

Current world number one Aryna Sabalenka responded positively to the news:

“If she wants to come back, that’s her decision. It’s going to be fun to see her back on tour.”

Elina Svitolina, who was defeated by Sabalenka in the Australian Open semi-finals, called Williams’ return “amazing”:

“She’s done so much for our sport and has been an inspiration for women around the world.”

Life After Tennis… Or Not?

Williams, now a mother of two, recently said she listed her occupation as “stay-at-home mum and housewife” — a stark contrast to her former jet-setting, record-breaking life.

Still, her decision to maintain eligibility for competition suggests that the fire hasn’t fully gone out.