Serena Williams took to social media to comment on the news that she is potentially coming out of retirement with plans to rejoin the WTA Tour in 2026.
These reports surfaced because her name appeared on the anti-doping list of American players. Upon her retirement in September 2022, she was removed from that list.
There is reportedly a six month lead time between appearing on the anti-doping list and coming back to competitive tennis.
What Serena Williams Said
Serena, 44, squashed the comeback speculation by saying “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy-”
Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy-
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) December 2, 2025
That seems to be a pretty definitive declaration that Williams will remain retired.
What She Did Not Say
She did not address how her name appeared on the list that sparked the comeback rumors.
Many speculated that she could come back to play doubles with sister Venus Williams after Venus’s successful hardcourt summer season leading up to the 2025 US Open.
Williams appears to be fit. We know she plays tennis in retirement so we are not sure if the speculation has permanently ended.
It seems as though fans would be excited about her return. Players like Daria Saville did not seem surprised by the possibility of the 44-year-old Williams coming back to the WTA Tour and seemingly predicted it.
oooo I was right ppl https://t.co/HMzrIZHPqv
— Daria Saville (@Daria_gav) December 2, 2025
Serena Williams retired as the greatest female tennis player of all time with 73 career singles titles, 23 were Grand Slams, and 5 WTA Finals wins. In doubles with Venus, she added 23 titles, 14 were Grand Slams, and 3 WTA Finals doubles titles. She also won 2 mixed doubles Grand Slam titles. Williams is a 4-time Olympic gold medalist. She became the first tennis player to be elected to the US Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame in the Class of 2025..
