Former Brit No. 1 Greg Rusedski outlined the potential path a
Serena Williams comeback could take. The former World No. 4 is preparing for the launch of his podcast ‘Off Court with Greg’, launching this Monday, where one of the topics was the possible return of the 23-time Grand Slam champion.
Several tennis personalities have spoken about the rumors of the 23-time Grand Slam champion's return. A week ago, it was revealed that
Serena was enrolled in the ITIA anti-doping test list—meaning she made herself available to undergo anti-doping testing: in simple terms, officially Serena made herself available for a potential appearance on the WTA Tour.
It is a requirement for all players in ATP, WTA, ITF, and associated tennis competitions to make themselves available for anti-doping tests, providing a time of day when they will be available to undergo random testing. Retired players leave the list, but recently the former World No. 1
reappeared on the ITIA list—implying a potential return to the courts.
After a day of widespread media repercussions, Serena took it upon herself to deny it on social media, although without giving too many details as to why her name reappeared on the ITIA list. Regarding this, former World No. 4 Greg Rusedski has his own theory. “For me, I think she might play some doubles with Venus,” he said. “If Venus is hanging up the rackets, I think she has gone on the (doping) list to sign off with Venus, which started the Williams sisters story.”
“What an amazing story. I think it’s the greatest story ever. You look at the Dad and they have made a movie out of this, King Richard. He said I don’t have one Michael Jordan, I have two Michael Jordans,” the 1997 US Open runner-up added. “What Serena and Venus did coming from Compton is incredible, so I think she has put herself on the list and will play doubles with Venus. It could be Wimbledon, it could be the US Open and boy, would I love to see that. I hope I’m there to see that in person if it happens.”
The last dance: Recalling Serena's 2022 US Open run
Serena Williams ended her career back in September 2022 during the US Open. On that occasion, at 41 years old, she surprisingly reached the third round of the tournament. Along the way, she defeated Danka Kovinic (6-3, 6-3) and World No. 2 Anett Kontaveit (7-6, 2-6, 6-2), before facing Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round.
Although less remembered than her singles appearance, Serena also joined her sister
Venus Williams for the last time in women's doubles. Together they formed one of the most successful pairs of all time, with 14 Grand Slam titles together and three Olympic gold medals (Sydney 2000, Beijing 2008, and London 2012). They ended up defeated in the first round against Czechs Linda Noskova and Lucie Hradecka (6-7, 4-6).