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Serena Williams Returns to Pro Tennis With Queen's Club Doubles Wildcard

The 23-time Grand Slam champion announced a grass-court doubles comeback as a staged re-entry that could pave the way for Wimbledon play.

Overview

  • Williams confirmed on Monday that she accepted a wildcard into the doubles draw at the HSBC Championships at Queen's Club in London, with the tournament starting June 8.
  • She became eligible to compete after rejoining the sport's anti-doping testing pool and completing the required six months of availability on February 22.
  • Multiple outlets report she is expected to partner Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko, but tournament organisers say a partner will be announced in due course.
  • There is widespread media speculation that the Queen's appearance could lead to Wimbledon entry, but no official Wimbledon singles or doubles entries have been confirmed.
  • The WTA and tournament officials praised the comeback, Nike helped publicise the announcement, and the return is likely to boost interest, ticket demand and attention on the grass season.