“She wants to keep going”: Serena Williams’ coach reveals plan for return before US Open
WTAWednesday, 08 July 2026 at 04:30
Serena Williams’ coach Rennae Stubbs has revealed that the 23-time Grand Slam champion would like to compete again before the US Open, although her next appearance will depend on how her body responds after her return to singles competition at Wimbledon.
The former world No. 1 made her comeback at SW19 after nearly four years away from singles competition, but her campaign ended in the opening round. Williams returned to professional tennis after stepping away from regular competition following her 2022 US Open appearance.
After receiving a wildcard into the Wimbledon women’s singles draw, Williams faced Australian youngster Maya Joint in the first round. The 44-year-old pushed the match to three sets but ultimately suffered defeat, and she later withdrew from the doubles event alongside Venus Williams after dealing with a knee issue during her singles comeback.
During the second week of Wimbledon, Stubbs spoke to reporters about Williams’ situation and explained that the former world No. 1 remains interested in continuing her comeback.
“Her goal is to keep going”: Serena Williams balancing comeback with other commitments
Stubbs stressed that her next step will depend on her physical condition and whether she feels ready to compete again before the final Grand Slam of the season. “I’ll leave it to her to discuss her medical stuff and how she’s feeling but I know that for her, trying to play, certainly something before the US Open will be something she would like to do," the coach said according to Tennis365.
The Australian coach explained that Williams’ return is not only about tennis, with the American also having responsibilities away from the court. The coach admitted that there are several factors to consider before deciding the next tournament, particularly after such a long period away from competition “She’s got a lot of things to consider, her family, her businesses. But her goal is to keep going,” Stubbs said.
The North American hard-court swing could provide Williams with an opportunity to continue building momentum after Wimbledon. Throughout her career, the American enjoyed some of her greatest successes on the surface, winning seven Australian Open titles and six US Open titles.
Stubbs believes returning to hard courts could also benefit Williams from a physical perspective, as the surface may offer a more stable environment compared to grass. “Getting on the hard court will be a lot more stable for her. And we all know how well she plays on hard court,” Stubbs said. “So it’s just a matter of getting her body back into the shape she wants. And then we’ll see.”
Serena Williams previously used hard-court tournaments before 2022 US Open run
Williams has already followed a similar preparation path during her previous comeback attempt in 2022. After returning to action at Wimbledon following a year away from competition, the American competed at the Canadian Open and Cincinnati Open before making her final Grand Slam appearance at the US Open.
That run allowed Williams to gain valuable match practice ahead of her farewell tournament in New York. She defeated Danka Kovinic and second seed Anett Kontaveit before losing to Ajla Tomljanovic in a three-set battle in the third round at Flushing Meadows.
Serena Williams after her victory in second round at US Open 2022. She beat the world No. 2 Annet Kontaveit.
The 2022 US Open was initially considered the final competitive appearance of Williams’ career before her surprise return to professional tennis in 2026. Now, after nearly four years away from singles competition, the former world No. 1 faces the challenge of rebuilding match fitness while managing the physical demands of competing at the highest level again.
Stubbs has made clear that the priority is not rushing Williams’ comeback but finding the right moment for her return. “She doesn’t want to go and do what she did here, which was just play singles, at the US Open, but at the same time it’s going to depend on physically how she’s doing.”
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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