Serena Williams is in discussions to return to competitive tennis by playing doubles at the Queen's Club WTA 500 tournament in London beginning June 8, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The 44-year-old former world No. 1 would likely receive one of two available doubles wildcards, including a spot reserved for a former Grand Slam champion of the past decade [1].

Williams has met eligibility requirements after re-entering the drug testing pool six months ago and is now cleared to compete again as of late February 2026 [1, 2, 3]. She has been training in Florida for several months, working with players like Alycia Parks in preparation for a possible return [2].

Her potential doubles partner at Queen's Club could be 19-year-old Canadian Victoria Mboko, ranked No. 9 in singles [1, 2, 3]. The Lawn Tennis Association typically prioritizes British players for wildcards but may make an exception given Williams's stature [1].

Williams last competed at the 2022 US Open, where she lost in the third round, and has avoided calling her hiatus a retirement, describing her status as "evolving away" from tennis [1, 2]. She has two daughters and described herself as a "full-time stay-at-home" parent in a January 2026 interview [3].

Williams holds a record 23 Grand Slam singles titles and 14 major women's doubles titles with her sister Venus Williams, who returned to tour play in July 2025 after a 16-month break [1, 2, 3]. Venus said, "The only thing that would make this better is if she was here," expressing hope for Serena's return [3].

Players reacted positively to the news. Madison Keys said, "Serena Williams playing tennis is only good for tennis... she’s the GOAT, so it would be amazing if she came back" [2]. Naomi Osaka added, "she always does bring an audience with her" [2].

Williams posted on social media in December 2025 denying a comeback but later re-entered testing to keep the option open [3]. If her doubles comeback goes well, she could seek a singles wildcard into Wimbledon, which starts three weeks after Queen's in late June [3].

Williams has an estimated net worth of $350 million as of early June 2026 [3]. The Queen's Club tournament will run from June 8-14, 2026, where Williams may make her highly anticipated doubles appearance [1, 2, 3].