Serena Williams considers return to tennis at Queen’s Club
Serena Williams is reportedly weighing the possibility of making a competitive return to tennis at Queen’s Club in London in two weeks, reports BritPanorama.
The 44-year-old American tennis icon stepped away from the sport four years ago following her final appearance at the US Open in 2022. During her illustrious career, Williams accumulated 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any female player during the Open era, making her second only to Margaret Court in the all-time rankings.
While there has been speculation regarding her participation, discussions seem to focus on entering the doubles draw at the WTA 500 grass court event rather than competing in singles.
The tournament is set to commence on Monday, June 8, with Wimbledon following just three weeks later. Williams requires a wildcard entry to participate, having been eligible for competition since February 22, after returning to the anti-doping testing programme for the required six months.
Two wildcard spots are available for the doubles competition, one of which is reserved for a player meeting specific criteria, such as being a former world number one or a major champion from the last decade. Given her extensive achievements, Williams clearly meets these qualifications.
The Served podcast, hosted by former world number one Andy Roddick, indicated that Williams might partner with 19-year-old Canadian Victoria Mboko at Queen’s. Williams has an impressive record in doubles, including 14 major titles won alongside her sister Venus, who continues to compete on the WTA Tour.
In addition, both siblings have secured three Olympic gold medals together in doubles. Notably, Williams has triumphed seven times at Wimbledon in both singles and doubles, further solidifying her place among the sport’s greats. Her last competitive match took place against Australia’s Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round of the 2022 US Open.
Despite her departure from professional tennis, Williams has refrained from using the term “retirement,” preferring to describe her exit as “evolving away” from the sport. The Lawn Tennis Association typically reserves wildcards for British players, but officials have suggested there may be flexibility in certain circumstances, as stated by LTA chief executive Scott Lloyd in April.
As Williams contemplates her return, it serves as a compelling reminder of her enduring impact on the sport, and the storied career that keeps fans eager for her next move. Whether or not she steps back onto the competitive stage, her legacy remains unshakeable.
