OFFICIAL: Tennis legend Serena Williams returns at age 44

The most recent professional appearance for Serena Williams came at the 2022 US Open, with a third-round defeat to Ajla Tomljanovic.

According to the WTA, the legendary Serena Williams has officially made her return to professional tennis after receiving a wild card entry for the doubles event at the upcoming Queen's Club Championships 2026, set to take place next week. This marks her first comeback to the professional circuit since the 2022 US Open, where she reached the third round before losing to Ajla Tomljanovic and subsequently hanging up her racket.

"It seems Serena is preparing for the US Open. Fans would undoubtedly be thrilled to see her return in singles competition.", former world No. 1 Lindsay Davenport commented during the ongoing Grand Slam event at Roland Garros.

Throughout her illustrious career, Serena Williams has claimed 23 Grand Slam singles titles, including seven Wimbledon championships and six US Open victories. She has also won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles alongside her famous older sister Venus Williams.

Serena Williams’ comeback has received support from many of today’s top stars. Current world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka described it as "great news for tennis", while "fashion queen" Naomi Osaka admitted she will definitely watch the first match of her childhood idol.

Current top American tennis star Coco Gauff also expressed regret at never having the chance to face Serena in her prime. Meanwhile, 2025 Australian Open champion Madison Keys stated that the presence of her fellow countrywoman always brings special value to tennis.

Previously, Venus Williams had repeatedly encouraged Serena to return; it seems that seeing her sister Venus still burning with passion for professional tennis at an age when 99% of her contemporaries have retired spurred Serena to make a comeback.