Overview
- ITIA spokesman Adrian Bassett said Williams notified the agency she wants reinstatement in the International Registered Testing Pool, with her name on a list dated October 6.
- Under ITIA rules, players must be available for out-of-competition testing for six months before competing, placing a potential eligibility window around April 2026 if the October listing started the clock.
- After the reports, Williams posted on X, “Omg yall I’m NOT coming back,” rejecting speculation that she is planning to resume competition.
- WTA and USTA officials initially said they were unaware of her re-entry; the USTA later said it would enthusiastically welcome her if she decides to return.
- Williams last competed at the 2022 U.S. Open, and reporting indicates she sought reinstatement in August—possibly to play 2025 U.S. Open doubles with Venus—though short-notice returns are not permitted under anti-doping protocols.