Serena Williams is returning to professional tennis after nearly four years away, accepting a wildcard entry to compete in doubles at the HSBC Championships at Queen's Club in London next week. The 44-year-old American will partner with Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko in what marks her first competitive match since the 2022 US Open.
Why is Williams returning now?
Williams re-entered the International Tennis Integrity Association's anti-doping testing pool last year, becoming eligible to compete as of February 22 after completing a six-month cooling period. The move signalled a serious intention to return, as players typically remove themselves from anti-doping protocols due to the administrative burden. She has not officially used the word retirement, instead describing her 2022 departure as "evolving away" from tennis, and has been training intensely in Florida alongside WTA players.
What makes this partnership notable?
Mboko, a rising Canadian talent, will make her own significant career step by competing alongside one of tennis's greatest players. The pair received a wildcard into the 16-team doubles draw at Queen's Club, which is hosting women's competitors for the first time since 1973. Williams has never before played at the historic London venue, making the event particularly symbolic for her return.
What's next in Williams' schedule?
Williams has also confirmed she will compete in doubles at the Berlin Tennis Open, a WTA 500 event beginning June 15, though her partner for that tournament has not yet been announced. The grass-court season positions her for a potential appearance at Wimbledon, which begins June 29. Her return has generated significant excitement across the tennis world, with fans preparing to see one of the sport's greatest players back in action after an extended absence.
Sources
- Social News XYZ: Serena Williams adds Berlin Open to comeback schedule after Queen's Club return. Published June 5, 2026.
- Tennis.com: Serena Williams hits Queen's Club practice court, set to partner Victoria Mboko in doubles. Published June 4, 2026.
- The Times Of India: Serena Williams shares first look at Queen's Club while long awaited comeback at 44 draws closer. Published June 4, 2026.
- WKNO FM: Serena Williams announces return to tennis. Published June 2, 2026.
Reported from public sources.