Serena Williams has officially been cleared to make a return to professional tennis, with the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) declaring her eligible to compete from 22 February. However, the 44-year-old tennis icon continues to deny persistent rumours of a stunning comeback to the women's tour, creating a cloud of uncertainty around her future in the sport.
Eligibility Confirmed Amid Denials
The ITIA, the sport's official drug-testing body, has confirmed that Williams meets all requirements for a return to competition. This development follows her re-entry into the anti-doping testing pool late last year, which initially sparked widespread speculation about a potential return to professional tennis.
Despite this official clearance, Williams maintains she has no immediate plans to return to the court. "I am the most non-serious person I know," Williams has stated, attempting to downplay the growing excitement about a possible comeback.
Mixed Messages Fuel Speculation
Williams has sent conflicting signals about her intentions over recent months. In December, she explicitly denied comeback reports on social media, posting: "Omg yall I'm NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy."
Yet just last month, when questioned on NBC's 'Today' show about a potential return, she offered ambiguous responses that only intensified speculation. "I'm just having fun and enjoying my life right now," Williams told interviewers. "That's not a yes or no. I don't know. I'm just gonna see what happens."
When pressed specifically about whether she had re-entered the drug testing pool, Williams responded cryptically: "Did I re-enter? I don't know if I was out. Listen, I can't discuss this."
Competitive Timeline and Possibilities
Williams, whose last Grand Slam singles title came in 2017, has not competed professionally since the 2022 US Open. If she does decide to return, the first tournament she could potentially enter would be Indian Wells in March.
There has been particular speculation about the revamped US Open mixed doubles competition, now scheduled for the week before the singles draw in an effort to attract more top players. This format could prove appealing to Williams as a potential return vehicle.
Family Inspiration and Current Status
Williams may have drawn inspiration from her older sister Venus Williams, who recently became the oldest woman to compete at the Australian Open at age 45. Venus also participated in all three formats at last season's US Open, reaching the quarter-finals in women's doubles with partner Leylah Fernandez.
Currently, Williams describes herself as a full-time stay-at-home parent to her two children. "When I filled out a form the other day. Occupation? Housewife," she revealed during her 'Today' show appearance.
The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has not yet commented on Williams' eligibility status or potential return, as requests for comment fell outside standard business hours.
With official clearance now secured but personal commitment remaining uncertain, the tennis world continues to watch closely for any definitive indication of whether one of the sport's greatest champions will grace the courts once more.
