"I can’t get her on the court": Venus Williams addresses Serena comeback rumours with honesty

Venus Williams arrived at the Charlotte Invitational for a new challenge on the tennis courts, this time in an exhibition against the crowned Australian Open champion, Madison Keys. After a tight opening set, Keys ultimately claimed the win 7-6, 6-0, but Williams' presence was sufficient to garner significant attention for the exhibition.

Speaking to Channel 9’s DaShawn Brown, Williams revisited stories from her journey and her mindset heading into the new season. She also took the time to address the rumors about the potential return of her sister, Serena Williams, to the Tour—specifically referring to the possibility of playing doubles together again.

A day earlier, journalist Ben Rothenberg reported that Serena Williams had been included on the ITIA anti-doping list, implying the 23-time Grand Slam champion would be eligible for a return to the courts within a few months. Speculation about Serena's return grew for several hours on social media and specialized outlets, but Serena herself came out to deny it on her X account.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion was asked about the whispers surrounding Serena Williams, who had sparked speculation one day earlier by teasing a possible comeback. When questioned about a potential doubles reunion with her sister, Venus did not dismiss the rumors so much as reshape them. “I can only speak for myself,” the five-time Wimbledon champion began clarifying at the press conference. “All I know is I can’t get her on the court, she doesn’t practice, so, it seems very unlikely for me.”

When the discussion turned to Madison Keys, Williams was asked whether she had heard the famous story about how Keys first picked up a racket. Williams revealed she had learned the full version only the night before, and her reaction mixed pride with amusement. The anecdote highlighted how even small moments—like a child seeing a tennis dress on TV—can lead to life-changing paths, something Williams deeply appreciated after witnessing Keys’ evolution into a Grand Slam champion.

“It’s very cool … Last night I found out which dress it was, she said she saw this person on TV playing in a tennis dress and said, ‘Mom, I want this dress’ ... and [she] said you’ve got to play tennis if you want this dress. Now she’s here, Grand Slam champion, a great American player and very cool, so I’m glad I wore that dress.”

Williams also touched on her long-term relationship with tennis, acknowledging that while she may not always remain on tour, she expects the sport will forever play a role in her life. The 45-year-old commented that the balance between stepping back and staying connected appears to come naturally for her. She mentioned that as long as she continues to hit the ball well, there is no reason not to keep going. “I don’t imagine the future without tennis so at some point, even if I’m never on tour, I’ll still be hitting the ball. And so while I’m still hitting the ball well, it’s like why not.”

Her reflections soon turned toward her relationship with Serena, particularly how profoundly it has shaped her identity as an athlete. Williams expressed that having her sibling alongside her for most of her career felt like a natural part of competing. “Honestly, I can’t imagine any professional athlete not playing with their sibling by their side. That’s my normal and I realize it’s very abnormal. But that’s our normal,” she stated. “It’s an incredible journey, you’re never alone, and also she is my inspiration and you would think it would be the other way around because I’m the older sister. I’m supposed to be the leader, but she has completely inspired me even if she never picks up a racket again and won’t practice with me.”