Serena Williams shocks tennis world with comeback after 4 years, set for Queen’s Club return

New Delhi: Tennis legend Serena Williams is set to make a surprising return to competitive tennis, nearly four years after her last professional singles appearance at the US Open 2022. The 23-time Grand Slam championwidely regarded as one of the greatest players in the sport’s historywill re-enter the competition at the Queen’s Club tournament in London.

Serena Williams had not officially retired, but in 2022 she suggested stepping away from the “daily grind” of professional tennis, hinting that the US Open that year could be her final event. Her latest decision now marks a new chapter in her career.

Queen’s Club to Mark Comeback Event

The 44-year-old will return to action in the doubles category at the Queen’s Club Championshipsscheduled from June 8 to 21 on grass courts. The event is seen as a key warm-up tournament ahead of Wimbledon, which begins on June 29th.

Speaking about her return, Serena Williams said the venue holds special meaning in her career. She described grass courts as the surface that produced some of her most memorable performances and expressed excitement about competing again on the iconic stage.

Wimbledon Wild Card Possibility

Her participation at Queen’s Club has fueled speculation about a possible wildcard entry into Wimbledon, either in singles or doubles. Tennis experts believe the event could serve as a stepping stone for a deeper return to Grand slam tennisincluding a potential US Open appearance.

Former world No.1 Lindsay Davenport suggested that a return to Flushing Meadows could be on the horizon if Serena Williams continues her comeback trajectory.

Players React to Serena’s Return

The announcement has also drawn attention from current players. World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka expressed excitement about Serena Williams‘ return, calling her a “legend” and saying it would be inspiring to see her back on court, even hinting at a possible matchup.