Serena Williams is back. Williams, who took a break from tennis in 2022, is set to make a triumphant return to the sport at the HSBC Championship in June.
That was a shocking announcement. Williams, 44, has not played professional tennis in four years. However, given her prominence in the sport and long hiatus, Williams received a lot of support from her fellow athletes after announcing her return.
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Retired tennis veteran Caroline Wozniacki and Olympic skier Lindsey Vonn, who know a thing or two about late-career comebacks, were among the early athletes to send support to Williams.
Both Wozniacki and Vonn responded to the Instagram teaser posted by Williams. In the teaser, Williams’ phone keeps ringing. As she walks across the court to grab it, the screen goes black and text pops up on the screen: “I think everyone heard the news.”
Wozniacki responded to the clip with fire emoji and applause emoji. Bon concluded his thoughts with “LFG!!” Two flexed biceps emoji.
Track and field star Allyson Felix, who recently announced her return, also responded positively to Williams’ news.
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Nike, which helped create the teaser Williams posted on Monday, joked that Williams might have to change his phone number following the announcement.
Many Tennis Grand Slam social media accounts took note of the news. The French Open tweeted Williams’ return post despite the event currently being held.
Wimbledon also confirmed Williams’ return.
Some believe Williams could use the HSBC Championship as a tune-up for her return at Wimbledon later in June. Williams and Wimbledon have not commented on whether the 23-time Grand Slam champion will compete again.
This story will be updated.
