Following her re-entry into the drug testing program in late 2025, speculation has intensified regarding tennis legend Serena Williams' potential return to the sport. Having stepped away in 2022 after an illustrious career marked by 23 Grand Slam titles, Williams has kept open the possibility of a comeback. This has led to discussions among current players, including Aryna Sabalenka, and now, former rival Lindsay Davenport has offered a highly optimistic perspective on the matter.
Lindsay Davenport, who competed against Williams numerous times between 2000 and 2005, has weighed in on the prospect of Serena's return. As an analyst at the Australian Open, Davenport expressed strong conviction that Williams is not yet finished with her professional tennis career. She indicated a high probability, suggesting it's in the 'high 90s' that Williams will resume playing in some capacity.
Davenport's optimism is rooted in the practical implications of re-entering the drug testing pool. She highlighted that this commitment requires players to designate an hour daily for drug testers, a significant undertaking for someone with Williams' responsibilities as a mother of two and a business owner. Davenport argued that such a dedication would be illogical unless there were genuine intentions to compete again. Williams is set to become eligible for competition by the end of February, marking the conclusion of her six-month drug testing period.
The tennis community is buzzing with theories about the nature of Williams' potential return. While some wonder if she will compete in singles, others ponder the possibility of a doubles comeback, particularly alongside her sister, Venus. Such a pairing would undoubtedly thrill fans eager to witness the iconic duo on court once more. Davenport herself expressed excitement at the prospect, believing it would be a remarkable event for the sport.
Williams' initial departure from tennis occurred at the 2022 US Open, where she made a memorable run to the third round. Utilizing a protected ranking, she secured victories against Danka Kovinić and the second seed Anett Kontaveit before ultimately falling to Ajla Tomljanović in a three-hour battle on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Although not the desired outcome, her final match was a testament to her enduring competitive spirit and a fitting close to that chapter of her career. Her journey now, should she return, would transcend mere competition, focusing on her lasting impact and legacy in the world of tennis.