Serena Williams took to social media on Tuesday to deny rumors that she was returning to play professional tennis.
Per TMZ, the rumors of Williams, 44, making a comeback reportedly swirled after her name recently appeared on the International Tennis Registered Testing Pool. Players as well as retirees who intend to compete in professional tennis are mandated to apply.
Though it is a requirement to apply, the International Tennis Registered Testing Pool does not cover all professional tennis players.
Williams, however, made it clear that she was not planning on returning to the court. “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back,” the twenty-three-time Grand Slam winner wrote on X. “This wildfire is crazy-.”
Following her retirement, Williams has been largely focusing on her family and businesses. In August 2023, Williams and her husband, Alexis Ohanian, welcomed their second daughter, Adira River Ohanian.
Williams also recently made it known that she finds it “difficult” to leave her daughters behind when she has to step out at night.
Williams explained why that was the case during an interview with PEOPLE on the red carpet at the Baby2Baby Gala on Saturday, November 8.
“Well, tonight was definitely a little more difficult. I don’t like to leave my kids,” she said. “I have a nighttime routine with them every day.”
“I love Baby2Baby because they’re really just about kids and helping so many babies and so many mothers as well,” Williams added. “They’re so supportive, so I just feel like it wasn’t easy, but it’s also nice. I get to come out and get to get dressed up, put on a little lip and have some fun with some amazing people.”
The event saw Williams being honored with the Giving Tree Award. The award is annually bestowed on a public female personality who has significantly contributed to making the lives of needy children better. Williams was honored with the award because of her advocacy for women’s health, with the focus being on Black maternal health.
