Serena Williams, the 23-time Grand Slam champion who retired after the 2022 US Open, has formally requested a doubles wildcard for the WTA 500 grass-court event at Queen’s Club, scheduled from June 8 to 14. Reports from The Telegraph and The Times indicate that she hopes to partner with Canada’s Victoria Mboko, currently ranked world No. 9 and winner of the WTA Newcomer of the Year award in 2025.
Anti-doping clearance
Williams re-entered the anti-doping testing pool last November and has now completed the required six-month period, making her eligible to compete again. This step was crucial in paving the way for her potential return to professional tennis.
Mboko partnership
The proposed pairing with Mboko has generated excitement among fans and analysts. Mboko, who captured breakthrough titles last season, represents the new generation of talent, while Williams brings unmatched experience and power to the doubles court.
A Wimbledon tune-up
Sources suggest that Queen’s Club could serve as a warm-up for Wimbledon, with the fast grass surface ideally suited to Williams’ aggressive style. Andy Roddick, speaking on his podcast, noted that the possibility of her return has already sparked significant anticipation.
Awaiting confirmation
Organizers have yet to officially confirm the wildcard request, but multiple outlets report that Williams is expected to feature at Queen’s Club. “Serena Williams is expected to make a comeback at Queen’s Club,” wrote The Telegraph, underlining the growing belief that her return is imminent.
