London01/06/202600
SPORT

Serena Williams: 23-time Grand Slam winner announces sensational tennis return at age of 44

The tennis icon is set to compete at the Queen's Club and potentially Wimbledon, marking her return after nearly four years away from the sport.

Key Facts

  • Serena Williams will return to professional tennis at the age of 44, competing in doubles at the HSBC Championships at Queen's Club.
  • Williams has not played competitively since the 2022 US Open and last appeared at Wimbledon in 2021.
  • She has received a wildcard to play doubles alongside Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko.
  • Williams re-entered the anti-doping testing pool in August 2023, fueling speculation about her return to the sport.
  • Tournament director Laura Robson expressed excitement about Williams' return, calling her one of the greatest athletes.

Return to Tennis

Serena Williams has confirmed her return to professional tennis at the age of 44, almost four years after her last competitive match. She will compete in doubles at the HSBC Championships at Queen's Club, starting on June 8. This marks a significant moment in her illustrious career, as she aims to make a strong comeback.

Williams will partner with Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko, who has long admired the tennis legend. This partnership is expected to draw significant attention, as fans are eager to see how Williams performs after her hiatus from the sport. She is set to play doubles at Queen’s with Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko.

Speculation and Preparation

The speculation surrounding Williams' return intensified when she re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s anti-doping testing pool in August 2023. This step is a prerequisite for competing on the professional tour, indicating her serious intent to return to the sport.

Since her last appearance at the 2022 US Open, Williams has focused on her family and entrepreneurial ventures. However, her recent activities suggest she has been preparing for a return to competitive tennis, with reports indicating she is in excellent shape. Alycia Parks, the American player, revealed in February that she had practiced with Williams, adding: “She is in great shape, so I think she would kill it on tour.”

Legacy and Expectations

Williams' return is not only significant for her but also for the sport of tennis. As a 23-time Grand Slam champion, her presence on the court is expected to draw considerable attention and excitement. Tournament director Laura Robson emphasized Williams' status as one of the greatest athletes, highlighting the impact of her return.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Williams will perform, especially at Wimbledon, where she has enjoyed tremendous success in the past. Her last Grand Slam singles title came in 2017, and many are curious to see if she can reclaim her former glory. Williams won her last Grand Slam singles title in 2017.

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