(Source: The Guardian) Serena Williams has quietly re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s (ITIA) registered drug-testing pool for the first time since 2022—a necessary step for any player contemplating a competitive return. This action has sparked renewed speculation about a potential comeback in 2026, although the 44-year-old maintains that she has no intention of returning to the court.
Williams has not participated in an official match since her 2022 US Open appearance. After taking a break, she submitted paperwork that exempted her from the strict whereabouts rules of tennis. According to World Anti-Doping Agency regulations, any player wishing to compete again must undergo six months of out-of-competition testing.
Her name reappeared on the ITIA’s updated list on 6 October. The agency confirmed she requested reinstatement, but stressed that inclusion “is not itself evidence of a comeback.” Hours later, Williams publicly denied any return was imminent, posting: “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back.”
Nevertheless, her reinstatement resets the timeline: if she stays in the testing pool without any interruptions, she could be eligible to compete again by mid-2026.
Speculation about a possible brief appearance at the US Open—particularly in mixed or women’s doubles—has been circulating for months. Sources indicate that Williams even considered rejoining the pool in August with the hope of playing doubles alongside her sister Venus, but the six-month requirement could not be bypassed.
Venus Williams, who has never officially retired, made her return earlier this year and is anticipated to resume her schedule in Auckland in early 2026.
Serena’s decision does not confirm a comeback—but it keeps the possibility open. Whether she will pursue singles, team up with Venus again, or simply maintain her eligibility remains uncertain.
