Tennis icon Serena Williams has been listed as eligible to return to competitive play after appearing on the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s reinstatement register, opening a potential pathway for a comeback should she choose to resume her career.
Williams became eligible for reinstatement on February 22, nearly six months after re-entering the sport’s anti-doping testing pool. While no official announcement has been made regarding a return to competition, the completion of this process allows her the option to compete again if she decides to do so. The development follows Williams’ decision last year to register with the sport’s testing programme, a move that sparked widespread speculation among fans. Williams later addressed the rumours directly, insisting that she was not planning an immediate return and dismissing the speculation surrounding her status.
Williams has not competed since the 2022 US Open, where she played her final professional match to date. That season marked a turning point in her career as she stepped away from the tour to focus on family life and business interests. Rather than announcing a formal retirement, Williams described the phase as an “evolution” away from tennis, leaving the door slightly open for the future.
Under integrity regulations, athletes who step away from the sport and later wish to return must undergo a minimum period of testing before becoming eligible to compete again. This includes regular whereabouts reporting and availability for both in-competition and out-of-competition sample collection over a six-month period.
One of the most accomplished athletes in sporting history, Williams’ career achievements remain unparalleled in the modern era. She has won 73 singles titles, including 23 Grand Slam championships, secured four Olympic gold medals, and compiled an exceptional 858–156 singles win-loss record.
While there is no indication of when or if Williams will step back onto the court, her eligibility status ensures that the possibility remains alive, keeping the tennis world watching closely for what could be another chapter in a legendary career.
For more news related to Women’s Tennis, click here.
