Tennis icon Serena Williams is officially set to return to professional tennis at age 44, nearly four years after her last competitive match at the 2022 U.S. Open.  

What we know

• Williams has accepted a wild-card entry into the doubles draw at the HSBC Championships at Queen’s Club in London.  
• The tournament runs from June 8–14, 2026.  
• It will be her first competitive appearance since the 2022 U.S. Open.  
• Reports indicate she is expected to partner with rising Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko in doubles.  

Why the comeback is such a big deal

Williams is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, with:

• 23 Grand Slam singles titles
• 14 Grand Slam doubles titles
• 4 Olympic gold medals  

Her return has immediately sparked speculation about a possible appearance at Wimbledon Championships, where she has won seven singles titles.  

Serena’s reaction

Williams described Queen’s Club as the perfect place to start a new chapter, saying that grass courts have given her some of the most meaningful moments of her career.  

The announcement has generated huge excitement across the tennis world, with fans and former players eager to see whether the legendary champion can make another memorable run on tour.