Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Dec 3: Tennis legend Serena Williams has firmly dismissed growing speculation about her possible return to professional tennis. The 23-time Grand Slam champion took to social media on Tuesday, stating that she is “NOT coming back,” shortly after reports emerged that she had rejoined the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s drug-testing pool a mandatory step for any player seeking to return to the sport.

Williams, now 44, has remained away from competitive tennis since her emotional farewell at the 2022 US Open. While announcing her exit, she famously said she was “evolving” away from the sport rather than retiring, leaving fans hopeful for a future return.

Her filing with the anti-doping body sparked excitement across the tennis world, but Williams quickly moved to shut down the speculation, writing, “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy.”

Despite her post, the U.S. Tennis Association acknowledged the filing, saying that Serena would receive a warm welcome if she chooses to compete again. The authority praised her as one of the greatest champions the sport has ever seen.

The ITIA confirmed that Williams has been added back into the testing program, which requires athletes planning a comeback to declare their whereabouts and remain available for sample collection over a six-month period before being allowed to compete professionally.

Serena’s elder sister, Venus Williams, returned to action earlier this year at the age of 45 and continues to compete, becoming the oldest singles player to appear at the US Open since 1981. Venus recently expressed her desire to see Serena back on tour, recalling their long-standing partnership that earned them 14 Grand Slam doubles titles.

For now, fans will have to wait and watch. While the paperwork has rekindled curiosity, Serena Williams has made her stance clear — she is not returning to the court at this time.