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Tennis legend Serena Williams is reportedly taking a step towards returning to competition.
Williams, 44, has re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) registered testing pool for the first time since retiring in 2022, according to Bounces. She last played in the 2022 US Open where she advanced to the third round before being defeated by Ajla Tomljanovic.
When Williams retired, she filed for official retirement, which meant she didn’t have to tell ITIA where she was for random drug testing. To re-enter as a retired athlete, Williams must be available for out-of-competition testing for six months before being allowed to compete in an event.
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Serena Williams of the United States gestures to the crowd after a match against Ajla Tomljanovic of Australia during day five of the 2022 US Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Flushing, New York, on September 2, 2022. (Danielle Parhizkaran/USA TODAY Sports)
Williams’ name was on ITIA’s updated test pool list on 6 October. Just because Williams’ name is on the list doesn’t mean a return to the game is imminent.
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion being noted is the necessary first step for any retired player who would like the opportunity to compete again. If Williams stays on track throughout the process, she could return in April 2026.
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Serena Williams gives an interview to Mary Jo Fernandez after her match against Ajla Tomljanovic (not pictured) on day five of the 2022 US Open tennis tournament at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Flushing, New York on September 2, 2022. (Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports)
Williams’ sister, Venus, took a break but never formally retired, allowing her to compete after 16 months away from competing.
Serena Williams first sought reinstatement in August, just before the US Open, according to Bounce’s report. However, due to the re-entry process, she was unable to play.
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Serena Williams, in a surprise appearance, speaks at the International Tennis Hall of Fame to induct Maria Sharapova at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, on Saturday. (IMAGIN)
Pakinomist Digital has reached out to Williams’ representatives for comment.
Williams is second all-time in Grand Slam singles titles to Maragaret Court, who won 24. With 23 championships, Williams has taken the first step in the quest for a 24th championship if she chooses to compete again.
