(VIDEO) Serena Williams trains serve as comeback speculation intensifies

Saturday, 21 February 2026 at 08:30

Serena Williams has shared a short service practice video on her TikTok account, highlighting one of the key elements of her game. The 23-time Grand Slam champion has not made any official announcement about a return, but the video has attracted attention from fans and media.

Williams retired from professional tennis in September 2022. In recent months, she has applied for reinstatement to the ITIA’s Registered Testing Pool, making her eligible for competition starting February 22, 2026 according to Bounces. Registration in the pool subjects her to random anti-doping testing, a requirement for all professional players.

The American appeared on The Today Show earlier this year and was asked about a potential return to the WTA Tour. She did not confirm any plans, stating, “I’m just having fun and enjoying my life right now. I don’t know, I’m just going to see what happens.”

Her TikTok post focuses specifically on serve practice, demonstrating technique, motion, and follow-through. At 44, everything seems to indicate that Williams will indeed return to the courts, and that she also enjoys generating anticipation among fans. The American appears to be in good shape—at least in the short video shared—and seems to be sending a signal to the Tour and the tennis world that she will be back soon.

Training and eligibility

In the TikTok clip, Williams executes multiple serves, emphasizing precision and rhythm. Observers have noted that her form appears consistent with her previous professional standards. The video does not indicate any official competition schedule or announcement, but it is her first public training footage since retirement.

Williams applied for inclusion in the ITIA Registered Testing Pool in August 2025. The application makes her eligible for random anti-doping tests and for professional tournaments starting February 22, 2026. According to tennis specialist Ben Rothenberg, this step was necessary for any player intending to compete, and Williams’ registration complies with ITIA regulations.

The 44-year-old also confirmed her application in previous interviews, reiterating that she had considered returning to the 2025 US Open but was prevented by ITIA rules requiring six months’ advance registration. The current registration period ensures she is eligible for anti-doping tests and competition starting next month.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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