Serena Williams faced relentless questions Wednesday about swirling rumors that she might return to professional tennis. The 23-time Grand Slam champion appeared on NBC’s Today show and carefully sidestepped direct answers about a potential comeback.
During the live interview, host Savannah Guthrie brought up Williams’ recent re-entry into the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s drug-testing pool, a move that typically precedes competition. Guthrie asked if it signaled a return to the court.
“I mean, really? Are you asking this on the Today show?” Williams responded with a laugh, her tone light but evasive.
Guthrie pressed on, noting that being back in the testing pool could point to a comeback. Williams deflected, saying she is “just having fun and enjoying my life right now.”
When Guthrie asked if her comments were a “no,” Williams mirrored the question back, prompting laughter in the studio. “All the people on your set that are laughing. This is distracting,” she said.
Williams acknowledged she has re-entered the testing pool but claimed, “I don’t know if I was out.” She added, “Listen, I can’t discuss this.”
Motherhood and Priorities
Williams repeatedly emphasized her focus on life off the tour. She described herself as a “full-time, stay-at-home” mom to daughters Olympia, 8, and Adira, 2, whom she shares with husband Alexis Ohanian.
“I’m just gonna see what happens,” she said when asked about the future. Guthrie suggested that sounded like a “maybe,” a label Williams swiftly rejected.
Williams also used humor to deflect the topic. When Guthrie said it might be a good moment to “put the retirement rumors to bed,” Williams quipped, “I want to go to bed. It’s early.”
At one point, Guthrie checked whether Williams was upset with her for pressing the issue. Williams smiled and shook her head, indicating all was well.
Rumors of a potential return have persisted since Williams’ name appeared in the ITIA’s registered testing pool in late 2025. That move sparked speculation because players must be in the pool to be eligible for competition.
Williams has publicly denied any plans to resume her professional career. In a December social media post, she wrote, “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back. This wildfire is crazy-” in response to comeback theories.
Despite her denials, interest in a possible return remains high among fans and media. Her sister, Venus Williams, who resumed competition in 2024, has been linked in some speculation about a doubles reunion.