Just when the tennis world thought Serena Williams had shut down the rumors, the 23-time Grand Slam champion ignited them all over again. After recently denying reports of a return, Williams dropped a new message that suggests she might be looking for her old form after all.
What Does Serena Williams’ Latest Message Mean for Her Return?
The speculation started when Williams’ name popped up in the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s registered testing pool. Players must complete this mandatory step before they can compete professionally.
The American icon walked away from the sport after the 2022 US Open with 73 WTA Tour singles titles and 23 majors. Her career also included dominance in doubles alongside her sister, Venus Williams, with whom she captured 22 titles and three Olympic gold medals.
In a recent post on X, Williams fueled the fire with a short but telling update about her mindset. She wrote, “Feeling strongly about claiming my mojo back.”
This vague message stands in sharp contrast to her stance just days ago. She previously shared a firm denial that gathered two million views, stating, “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy-”
The potential return has the tennis community buzzing. Hall of Famer Andy Roddick and journalist Jon Wertheim have weighed in. At the same time, former pros like John Isner, Sam Querrey, Steve Johnson, and Jack Sock have also reacted to the possibility of seeing Williams on the court again.
How Does Billie Jean King Feel About a Potential Comeback?
WTA founder Billie Jean King addressed the situation in an interview with Sky Sports. King noted that if Williams returns, it won’t be for the money.
“But if you love to play, why not? I mean, she’s all set in life. She doesn’t need it financially, and she enjoys it. I met her when she was six and Venus was seven at a tennis clinic we gave in Long Beach, California. They came with their dad Richard. It was an amazing day. I’ll never forget it.”
King continued, “We had the kids hit back and forth from the audience. Because they’re so exceptional. You could see right away they’re exceptional. Personally, I would love it.”
These comments came while King was at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. The event marked a historic deal, making the German automaker the official premier partner of the WTA.
