Serena Williams ‘certain’ to make tennis comeback says former coach

Serena Williams is “100% certain” to make a return to professional tennis after ramping up her training intensity, claims her former coach Rick Macci.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion has not competed on the WTA Tour since bowing out at the 2022 US Open.

Although Williams previously announced she was “evolving away” from the sport, Macci insists the American icon is preparing for a competitive return to singles action.

Training intensity ramps up

Macci, who coached Williams and her sister Venus during their formative years in the early 1990s, shared his conviction with French publication L’Equipe.

He revealed that the 44-year-old has been testing herself against male sparring partners to regain match sharpness.

“She’s training with lots of sparring partners – guys,” the 71-year-old coach stated.

Macci also noted that the former world number one has been hitting with current tour professional Alycia Parks in South Florida.

“I have no doubt about it,” he added regarding the potential comeback.

‘Competitor at heart’

While Williams has previously sidestepped questions regarding a return, recent developments suggest a shift in mindset.

The seven-time Wimbledon winner recently rejoined the sport’s anti-doping testing pool, a mandatory requirement for any athlete wishing to enter professional tournaments.

Macci emphasised that this would not be a ceremonial return or a doubles-only venture.

“We’re not just talking about doubles here… she’s going all out,” he said.

“If she didn’t think she could compete with the best and win matches, she wouldn’t do it.”

The veteran coach suggested that next month’s events at Indian Wells or the Miami Open could be potential targets for her re-emergence.

Questions over durability

Despite his confidence in her desire to return, Macci acknowledged the physical challenges facing a player in their mid-40s.

“The question is whether that competitive spirit is still there,” he mused.

“She’s answering that question herself: she’s coming back because she is a competitor at heart.”

However, he warned that sustained performance across a tournament week remains the biggest hurdle.

“Making an appearance, playing an exhibition match or a match is one thing,” Macci concluded.

“Doing it again the next day and the day after that, and performing well day after day is another.”

Williams’ representatives have yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the claims.