Confirmed comeback? Serena Williams removed from retirement list by officials and added to active player roster

Serena Williams has just taken the most crucial step yet in her return to professional tennis. The 23-time Grand Slam champion has been officially reinstated as an "active player" by the International Tennis Integrity Agency, removed from the retirement list, signaling that her comeback is no longer just speculation.

Renowned tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg has closely followed the legend’s movements and recently dubbed February 22 as “Serena Williams Reinstatement Day.” The entire tennis world eagerly awaits her next move — will she truly return to the court?

As early as last December, the ITIA confirmed to BBC Sport that Williams had re-entered the registered anti-doping testing pool. This means she must declare her whereabouts for one hour daily and undergo out-of-competition random testing — a strict protocol applied only to active players.

However, hours after this announcement, the 44-year-old player denied comeback rumors on social media: “I’m not coming back. That’s crazy.” Yet weeks later, her tone softened during an interview on the Today show, where she said, “I don’t know, I’ll just see what happens.” Still, she didn’t clarify her testing status.

Now, the latest update brings a clearer signal: on the ITIA official website, Serena Williams is no longer listed as a retired player. This indicates she has completed the required testing availability period to regain eligibility, a key prerequisite for returning to tour competition. Journalist Ben Rothenberg noted this timeline matches previous reports — Serena applied for reinstatement last August aiming for the 2025 US Open but was initially denied due to not being in the testing pool.

Serena’s last competition was at the 2022 US Open, where she defeated Kovinic and Kontaveit before losing a tough three-set match to Tomljanovic. During that tournament, she also partnered with her sister Venus in doubles.

Since then, she has balanced her career and family life, often expressing that she does not miss the grueling tour lifestyle. However, recent activities have fueled comeback rumors: a TikTok video showing her practicing serves and a mysterious Instagram caption saying “getting ready for a Serena summer” have excited fans.

Having regained eligibility, she is now theoretically able to compete in major tournaments including Indian Wells. Notably, Venus has already received a wildcard for that event and will partner with Fernandez in doubles. The biggest questions now are timing and goals. Some believe she aims for a 24th Grand Slam to tie Court’s record; others think a doubles reunion with Venus is more realistic.

Opinions have poured in from former coaches to current players. The discussion started when Serena posted “Serena summer” on Instagram. Her “rival” and friend Maria Sharapova commented guessing “Wimbledon?” to which Serena replied, “Haha, no.”

Though she seems to rule out a grass-court return, speculation continues. Many think if she returns, the most likely stage remains the US Open in New York — possibly even partnering with Venus in doubles.

Her former coach Rick Macci told L’Equipe with certainty: “Serena will definitely come back. She still has the hunger to compete. Twenty-five years of fighting spirit doesn’t just switch off.”

He also pointed out her serve and biomechanics remain top-tier and suggested Indian Wells or Miami as possible comeback venues. Another familiar voice — her longtime coach Mouratoglou — expressed optimism on Instagram, hoping to see her return in 2026 and noting training videos show she’s in good shape.

Current players have also shared their views. Parks revealed she recently trained with Williams: “She’s in great shape, I think she would dominate the tour if she returns.” Sabalenka said if Serena comes back, “it would be very exciting for the sport.”

The consensus in tennis is clear: if Serena Williams truly makes a comeback, it won’t be for nostalgia but to compete. Whether at Indian Wells, Miami, or under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the entire tennis world is waiting.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Huohua)