Aryna Sabalenka, the world's No. 1 ranked female tennis player, has recently addressed the swirling rumors of a potential comeback by Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion. Williams, who last played professionally at the 2022 US Open, has fueled speculation after re-entering the sport's drug testing pool.
Sabalenka, currently competing at the Australian Open where she has reached the final, shared her thoughts on the possibility of Williams' return. "I heard that she's enjoying her life and, whatever makes her happy, I'm happy for her," Sabalenka stated. She added, "If she wants to come back, that's her decision. It's going to be fun to see her back on tour. She's got the personality, and she's a fun one. It will be cool".
Williams herself has offered a mix of denial and open-mindedness regarding a return to the sport. In December, she responded to news of her re-entry into the drug testing pool with a tweet stating: "Omg y'all I'm NOT coming back". However, in a recent interview on NBC's The Today Show, the 44-year-old didn't completely dismiss the idea.
When asked directly about a possible comeback, Williams responded, "Really, are you asking this on the Today Show? Oh, my goodness...I'm just having fun and enjoying my life right now. That's not a yes or no. I don't know. I'm just gonna see what happens". She also alluded to her current priorities, stating, "I have two kids. I'm a full-time stay at home [mother]. When I filled out a form the other day. Occupation? [I wrote] housewife". When further questioned about re-entering the drug testing pool, Williams remained coy, replying, "Did I re-enter? I don't know if I was out. Listen, I can't discuss this".
Williams' initial denial followed reports that she had re-entered the tennis anti-doping testing pool in December, a step required for athletes returning from retirement, who must be available for testing for six months before competing again. Despite her clear denial, Sabalenka still weighed in on what it would mean to face the 23-time Grand Slam champion.
Serena Williams' potential return continues to be a topic of much discussion within the tennis world, with fans and players alike eagerly awaiting any further developments. Her influence and impact on the sport are undeniable, and her presence on the tour would undoubtedly generate significant excitement.
