Serena Williams' Comeback: What's Being Said About Her Return

Tennis icon Serena Williams is making a comeback to the professional circuit at the age of 44, with her return confirmed for the WTA tournament at Queen's Club in London, scheduled for June 8-14.

Williams, who last competed officially at the US Open in 2022, announced her return via a social media video, which was subsequently confirmed by tournament organizers and the WTA. She has received a wildcard entry to participate in the doubles competition. Her partner will be 19-year-old Canadian Victoria Mbok, currently ranked world No. 9 in doubles.

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She is talented by nature. I have no doubt she will play well.

This marks a significant return for the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, who has been absent from the tour for nearly a year. Her older sister, Venus Williams, also returned to professional play at 45. Serena Williams was reinstated on the anti-doping list in August 2025 and received permission to play again in February, subsequently requesting a wildcard for the grass-court event.

Venus Williams expressed confidence in her sister's abilities, stating, "She is talented by nature. I have no doubt she will play well." Former world No. 1 Mats Wilander commented on the motivation behind such returns, suggesting it stems from a love of the game and the thrill of competition. "You win a round and you feel like you've won the US Open!" he remarked, emphasizing the pure enjoyment that can come from playing without the immediate pressure of rankings or prize money.

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Why come back? Because we missed it. Because it's fun. We didn't miss the trips, we missed the matches. That's why we feel the need. So, at first, it's very easy. We are completely free. It's fun. You win a round and you feel like you've won the US Open! You don't think about ranking points, money or anything else.