'I've got to play Wimbledon!' - Serena Williams hints at comeback after lengthy absence
- Planet Sport writer
- 8 April 2022
The tennis legend quashed earlier retirement rumours, by insisting that she'll feature at Wimbledon this summer.
Serena Williams has claimed she is readying her "comeback" at Wimbledon this year, despite other reports suggesting she was on the brink of retiring.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion has stepped away from tennis in recent years and has not played a competitive match since Wimbledon last summer.
She was forced to withdraw from the All-England club tournament last season early due to a hamstring injury, with that also costing her a spot at the US Open and the Olympics too.
However, in an Instagram story video she posted with NFL star Aaron Rodgers, Williams said she was ready to make her return.
"We've been talking about my comeback and he's been hyping me up and getting me ready for Wimbledon," Williams said. "Can't wait!"
Rodgers suggested the US Open instead, but Serena shot him down, saying: "Wimbledon's before the US Open, I've got to play Wimbledon first. Exciting!"
Earlier in the day rumours were rampant that Williams was on the verge of retiring after long-time coach Patrick Mouratoglou joined forced with Simona Halep instead.
"Today I am starting a new chapter in my coaching career - I am now the full-time coach of Simona Halep," Mouratoglou said on Twitter.
I am now the full-time coach of @Simona_Halep. pic.twitter.com/MRlkmeJyhw
— Patrick Mouratoglou (@pmouratoglou) April 7, 2022
"In the last eight months, I realised how much I missed coaching. It is the passion of my life and I still feel like I have so much to give.
"Simona came to the Mouratoglou Academy before Indian Wells for a training block. I swung by at a few of her practices, watched her train.
"At the end of the week, she asked me if I was available to coach her. I have the highest respect for her but it was out of the question at the time.
"A few weeks later, I had a conversation with Serena, and the door opened for me, at least short-term, to work with someone else. I will keep you updated on what's coming next soon."
Williams comments on Wimbledon suggests she has all but ruled out playing the French Open, which is scheduled for the end of May.
