More than 3 years after her last professional match, Serena Williams is once again at the center of tennis conversation, and this time, it is not nostalgia driving the headlines. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion will be eligible to return to professional competition from 22 February following her required six-month period in the anti-doping testing pool, a standard process for athletes re-entering the sport.
The development has reignited debate about whether Serena Williams is preparing for a formal comeback. Adding fuel to the speculation, fellow American Alycia Parks recently confirmed she has been practicing with Williams and described her as being in “great shape.”
While no official tournament entry has been announced, the combination of eligibility timing, active training, and public commentary suggests the possibility of another chapter in one of tennis’ most decorated careers.
Serena Williams Eligible to Return After Anti-Doping Requirement
Serena Williams signaled last month that she planned on retiring after the US OpenImage: John Minchillo/AP Photo/picture alliance
Under international tennis regulations, players who retire or step away from competition must re-enter the anti-doping testing pool for a six-month period before becoming eligible to compete again. Williams has now completed that requirement and can officially return to sanctioned tournaments from 22 February.
There has been no formal confirmation from Williams or tournament organizers regarding a specific event. However, the timing opens the door to several high-profile options on the WTA calendar.
The process is not unusual for elite athletes returning from extended breaks. It ensures compliance with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations and competitive integrity.
Training Sessions With Alycia Parks Add Momentum
Speculation intensified after Alycia Parks shared details of a recent practice session with Williams. Speaking to Tennis Majors, Parks said:
“I actually practiced with her last Monday. And I messaged her yesterday. She’s definitely a good mentor to me and she’s helped me a lot, especially in my practices. She is in great shape. So I think she would kill it on tour.”
Alycia Parks
Parks, 25, recently progressed through qualifying to reach the main draw at the Qatar Open and defeated seeded opponent Diana Shnaider in the opening round. While she did not directly link her performance to the practice session, her remarks offered rare insight into Williams’ current physical condition.
For observers, the phrase “in great shape” carries weight. At 44, Williams would be attempting a return at an age where few players compete at the highest level, let alone contend for titles.
Wimbledon Rumors Surface in Tennis Circles
Veteran tennis journalist Jon Wertheim recently addressed the comeback rumors on the podcast Served with Andy Roddick, suggesting that Wimbledon could be a possible target.
“I’ve got to say, I think this is great,” Wertheim said. “If Serena still thinks she’s got some juice that can be squeezed, go nuts. It would be one of the great tennis stories of 2026.”
Jon Wertheim
He also floated the possibility of a mixed doubles return or a symbolic appearance at Wimbledon Championships, where Williams has won seven singles titles. Her last appearance there did not deliver the farewell many fans expected, leaving open the narrative appeal of a return to the grass courts.
At this stage, however, these remain informed discussions rather than confirmed plans.
Addressing Questions Around Medication and Eligibility
Wertheim also addressed public curiosity about Williams’ association with GLP-1 weight-loss medications, which she has promoted commercially.
According to Wertheim, these medications are currently on WADA’s monitoring list but are not prohibited substances. That distinction is critical. Being monitored does not equate to being banned.
There has been no indication of any anti-doping violation involving Williams. The completion of her six-month testing pool requirement further underscores her compliance with return protocols.
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