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Jun 01, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Serena Williams Announces Comeback at Queen’s Club at Age 44

AI Summary
Serena Williams, the 23‑time Grand Slam champion, confirmed she will return to professional tennis at 44, entering the women’s doubles draw at the Queen’s Club WTA 500 event. She will partner Canadian rising star Victoria Mboko, marking her first competitive appearance since retiring in 2022.

Serena Williams' Return Set for Queen’s Club

Serena Williams has announced a sensational comeback to professional tennis at age 44, slated for next week at the Queen’s Club in London.

Wildcard Entry into the Women’s Doubles Draw

Williams will compete with a wildcard in the women’s doubles draw of the WTA 500 event, the second edition of the tournament.

Key Facts About the Comeback

  • Age at return: 44
  • Last competitive appearance: US Open 2022 (retirement)
  • Event: Queen’s Club, London – grass‑court WTA 500
  • Partner: Victoria Mboko (Canada, world No. 9 in singles)
  • Williams' career highlights: 23 Grand Slam singles titles, 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, only player with a career Golden Slam in both singles and doubles

Williams’ Statement on the Grass‑Court Choice

In a personal statement she said, “Queen’s Club feels like the perfect place to begin this next chapter. Grass has given me some of the most meaningful moments of my career, and I’m excited to be back competing on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.”

Victoria Mboko’s Reaction and Outlook

Mboko, who last spoke about the potential return at the French Open, expressed enthusiasm: “I’m very happy. Me and Serena have stayed in touch, which is really, really nice, because I really look up to her. I mean, the fact that she even knows me is very exciting.” She added that she will let Williams decide the timing of her return.

What This Means for the WTA Tour

The comeback adds a high‑profile narrative to the early‑season grass‑court swing, potentially boosting viewership and ticket sales for the Queen’s Club event. It also provides Mboko with a rare opportunity to partner with a legend, which could accelerate her development on the tour.

Looking Ahead: Potential Path for Williams

While Williams has not detailed a full schedule, her appearance at Queen’s suggests a measured re‑entry, possibly focusing on doubles before considering singles play. Observers will watch how she adapts to the modern game after a four‑year hiatus.