Why Andy Roddick believes Serena Williams may be keeping the door open for a comeback

Andy Roddick believes Serena wants the option to return to tennis

Speaking on his podcast Served with Andy Roddick, the 2003 US Open winner offered a personal insight into what re-entering doping protocols really means. Roddick explained that once a player officially files retirement paperwork, they must complete months of testing before they’re eligible to compete again.

“People might not know what this means,” he said. “I retired and filed the paperwork… I’m assuming Serena did too, because you don’t have to re-enter doping protocols if you never left them.”

Roddick contrasted his situation with John McEnroe, who never formally retired and could theoretically play a professional event without re-entering the system. For Roddick, the decision is far from trivial.
“It is significant,” he continued. “Serena could go out and win matches… make a run to the second week of a Slam. I don’t think that would shock anyone. A lot of work between here and there, but that’s how I feel.”

He added that no fully retired player would voluntarily resume drug testing “for no reason,” saying: “The reason you go back into doping protocols is that you like the option of coming back, and I don’t know how else to read this.”

Roddick suggests Serena Williams could return in doubles alongside Venus

If Williams is even considering a comeback, the next question becomes where — and with whom. According to Roddick, one scenario makes perfect sense: partnering Venus Williams one final time.
Speaking about the 2028 Olympics speculation, he noted how the traditional timelines of athletic decline have shifted thanks to stars like Tom Brady and LeBron James. He also highlighted Venus’ strong form in 2025, especially her run in doubles at the US Open with Leylah Fernandez.

“Maybe she’s going… you know who else is pretty good?” Roddick said. “What better way to celebrate than next to your sister?”

He stressed it was “pure conjecture,” but suggested that a sister-sister swan song shouldn’t be ruled out — especially with Venus still competing at 45.

For her part, Venus recently said she doesn’t believe Serena is returning: “All I know is that I can’t get her on the court. She doesn’t practice.”

Whether Serena’s move signals a genuine comeback or simply ensures she has the option, all eyes will be on her in 2026 as fans wait to see if tennis’ greatest champion has one more chapter left.