American ATP legend Andy Roddick, Jon Wertheim, and Mike Hayden have become the latest individuals to share their thoughts on Serena Williams’ comeback, with Wertheim highlighting her familial motivation. The speculation rose after her name reappeared in the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s mandatory anti-doping test.
The WTA legend retired from professional tennis in September 2022, after her run at the US Open tournament, where she competed in both the singles and doubles categories with her older sister, Venus Williams.
John Wertheim Reflects on Serena Williams Leaving the Door Open for a Comeback With Her Anti-Doping Test Move
During the recent episode of “Served with Andy Roddick”, the Hall of Famer, who shares a long-time friendship with Williams, shed light while discussing the possibility of her comeback after she decided to re-enter the mandatory testing pool. A move that has taken the elite personalities and the fans by storm, as they all are speculating that the winner of 73 WTA Tour singles titles, including 23 major titles, could grace the courts once again.
While referring to her return, veteran journalist Wertheim reflected on why her comeback could be remarkable, given that her family is now able to understand the extent of her iconic presence on court, citing examples of legends such as Novak Djokovic and LeBron James. He also shared that she has the option to come back and how it’s emotionally challenging to say goodbye if you have reached prominent levels in your sport.
He reflected, “I mean, you’re really good at one thing. It’s hard to sort of give it up and say I’m never going to be as good at anything else ever again. And I think if nothing else she’s given herself the option.”
Continued, “I also think something we don’t talk about enough just side point having kids who can appreciate what mom and dad is doing you know Bronny James is kind of one obvious exponent but I’ve talked to Novak about that and having his kids not just sitting there but appreciating the magnitude hearing the applause having the context that’s a real motivation.”
Wertheim also revealed that her return would be welcomed with open arms and that her comeback is within reason, adding, “If Serena wanted to play tomorrow, that would be great, I don’t think anyone would be in opposition to this. She took the first step and who knows if she’s going to keep going. But I don’t think it’s unreasonable to infer that she is at a bare minimum thinking about coming back.”
Williams is the mother of two daughters, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr, 8, and Adira River Ohanian, 2, whom she shares with entrepreneur, investor, and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. She also warmed fans’ hearts after sharing glimpses of her recent training session with Adira.
