Tennis legend Serena Williams has taken an important step toward a potential comeback, reigniting excitement and speculation across the sports world. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, who has not competed professionally since 2022, has notified the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) of her desire to rejoin the International Registered Testing Pool (IRTP)—a requirement for any player wishing to return to competition.
Her name appeared in the updated IRTP list released on October 6, signaling that she will now be subject to anti-doping testing protocols and daily location reporting. Adrian Bassett, an ITIA spokesperson, confirmed the development and acknowledged the significance of the move.
“She has notified us that she wants to be reinstated into the testing pool. All I can say is she’s back in the pool and therefore subject to whereabouts.”
While Bassett noted that the decision does not necessarily confirm Williams’s competitive comeback, it gives her the option to play again should she choose to do so. Williams and her team have not yet commented publicly on her intentions.
Pathway to a Return
The IRTP consists primarily of the top 100 players in men’s and women’s singles, elite doubles athletes, wheelchair players, and competitors attempting a professional return after a significant hiatus. Athletes re-entering the pool must remain in it for at least six months before becoming eligible to compete.
If Williams stays active in the testing program through spring, she could potentially return to the professional circuit as early as April 2026.
Representatives from both the WTA Tour and United States Tennis Association (USTA) stated anonymously that they had not been informed of her inclusion in the testing system, suggesting that any comeback plans remain tightly controlled and early-stage.
Mixed Doubles Could Mark Her Comeback
Should Williams choose to re-enter competition, many observers believe the U.S. Open mixed doubles event may serve as her first stage. The tournament has built a reputation for featuring high-profile athletes and celebrity pairings, and its wildcard format allows established players to return without traditional qualification requirements.
Williams has an extraordinary doubles résumé, including:
14 Grand Slam doubles titles, most partnered with sister Venus Williams
3 Olympic gold medals
Multiple championship wins in mixed doubles
Venus Williams continues to compete, making a storyline comeback alongside her sister a major draw for global audiences.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
Williams has repeatedly stated she never fully embraced the term “retirement”, instead describing her break from tennis as an opportunity to evolve personally and professionally. Since stepping away, she has built a successful business portfolio, expanded her venture capital firm, and dedicated time to family.
Even the possibility of her return has electrified fans, many of whom have been eager to see her step back onto the court. A comeback would mark one of the most anticipated returns in modern sports history.
As the tennis world watches closely, her next move remains unclear—but hope is growing.
