Why rumors about Serena Williams making a tennis comeback are flying high again after shocking move

Serena Williams is rumored to make a sensational return to professional tennis. Her name has appeared again on the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA)’s International Registered Testing Pool (IRTP).

Although the American is still listed as retired (2022), the ITIA rules state that players must be available for at least six months of testing before returning to tournaments. This could suggest that she may come back to the tour in 2026 or 2027.

Williams is one of the most decorated athletes in the history of women's tennis. She captured 23 Grand Slam titles and four Olympic Gold medals during her career.

Williams being added to the IRTP isn’t the first sign she might return. The 44-year-old had openly shared her plans during a TechCrunch Disrupt event in San Francisco in 2022.

“I am not retired. The chances of me returning are very high. You can come to my house and see that I have a court. I still haven’t really thought about it," Serena Williams said

"I did go on the court the other day and [realised] for the first time in my life that I’m not playing for a competition and that felt very weird. 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,” She added

Williams is often seen spending time with her family or focusing on her business ventures. She has also worked hard on her fitness, losing nearly 17 kg this year.

"I challenge her to come back next year" - Novak Djokovic misses Serena Williams' competitive spirit on tour

Williams at the US Open Tennis Championship 2022 - Source: Getty

Novak Djokovic is still competing at a high level on the ATP Tour. At 38, he reached the semifinals of all four Majors and also won the Hellenic Championships this year.

The Serb enjoyed watching Serena Williams introduce her longtime rival Maria Sharapova at the International Tennis Hall of Fame. He described the moment as gracious and also lightheartedly invited Williams to make a comeback to the tour.

“Seeing Serena, you know, in any shape or form around tennis is great. You know, we miss her. And she still hasn’t officially retired, so I invite her. I challenge her because she’s such a great competitor. So when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So I challenge Serena. Come back on a Tour next year," Novak Djokovic said after winning the first round at the US Open

Williams dominated the head-to-head battle against Sharapova 20-2. She defeated the Russian in straight sets during their last match at the 2022 US Open.

Serena’s sister, Venus Williams, is still competing on the WTA Tour. She reached the quarterfinals of the US Open doubles tournament this year, partnering with Leylah Fernandez.

Williams has yet to give an official update on her return to professional tennis. The American has been spotted at select events, watching some significant matches this year.