Yevgeny Kafelnikov believes a Serena Williams comeback happening is a safe bet and suggests there is definitely a reason for "optimism" when that happens because the American will be returning with a different physique.
Somewhere around mid-2025, Williams applied to be reinstated into the ITIA's anti-doping program. Until last Sunday, February 22, the former WTA world No. 1 was mandated to complete a six-month doping-testing period. That one has been cleared and she is now eligible to compete again.
While no one was aware of Williams being back into the ITIA's program, the 44-year-old also revealed last August that she lost 31 pounds (14kg) with the help of a weight-loss drug.
Kafelnikov on Williams' comeback: The question is no longer if it will happen, but when it will happen
“The question is no longer ‘if,’ the question is ‘when,’ when it will happen. We haven’t seen a single clip of her playing or training on court yet, yes, but her appearance gives reason for optimism – this is not the same Serena from three or four years ago, with the more substantial physique. She surely wants to step back onto the tennis court and delight the fans with her game," the former two-time Grand Slam champion said, via Russian publication Championat.
It has been three and a half years since Williams played the last time. During her 2022 US Open farewell, the former 23-time Grand Slam champion made noise as she beat Anett Kontaveit – who was the world No. 2 at the time – before losing to Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round.
Months after retiring, Williams admitted to feeling "tempted" to return because she felt she could still play at the highest level. However, it didn't happen as she decided to remain firm in her retirement decision.
But now, years later, the former world No. 1 appears to be set to give tennis another chance.
Williams will celebrate her 45th birthday in September.
