Lindsay Davenport puts a percentage on Serena Williams’ chances of returning to tennis this year

Davenport, who faced Williams 14 times between 2000 and 2005, knows the tennis legend’s game well. Now working as a pundit at the Australian Open, the former world number one is convinced that Williams isn’t finished with tennis just yet.

Speaking to Nine, Davenport didn’t hesitate when asked about the chances of a comeback. “Having no inside info on what she is doing, I would say it is in the high 90s (percentage chance) that she is going to come back in some capacity.

“I just don’t think that you willingly put yourself back into the drug testing pool otherwise. You are giving these drug testers an hour every day of your schedule, you’re a mom of two, you’re running a business.

“You have to give them an hour every day to come and find you for a drug test. She’s going to be eligible at the end of February to be able to start competing again.

“That’ll be the end of her six months to be drug tested. I don’t think there’s any way you do that unless you’re not planning to play somewhere. I don’t know if it’s singles or doubles or a lot of rumours. I think it would be amazing.”

Many believe if she does return, it could be in doubles alongside her sister Venus—a pairing fans would no doubt love to see one more time.

A look back at how Serena left tennis

The 2022 US Open served as the perfect stage for Serena Williams’ farewell from tennis. Entering through a protected ranking, she managed a solid run into the third round at Flushing Meadows.

She started with wins over Danka Kovinić and second seed Anett Kontaveit before meeting Ajla Tomljanović in what turned out to be her final match.

The contest stretched over three hours on Arthur Ashe Stadium – not the result she wanted but certainly one fitting of her career

This new phase isn’t just about competition; it’s about influence and legacy – exactly how Venus would want her story told now.