Speaking on Wednesday at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic said, “I think she’s coming back. I don’t know. I haven’t spoken to her, but I guess the sentiment is that she’s coming back. Where and how, singles, doubles, we don’t know, and if I’m in her position, I would hide it too.”
Williams, 44, who has not competed since a third-round loss at the 2022 US Open, re-entered the anti-doping testing pool in December and regained eligibility to compete. While initially denying a comeback, she later told NBC’s Today show in January that a return was “not a yes or a no,” adding, “I don’t know, I’m just going to see what happens.”
Tennis Community Eager for Return
Djokovic said the news has generated a buzz among players and fans alike. “Everybody is excited, and it’s definitely something that’s very highly anticipated,” he said. He speculated that Serena might return at Wimbledon, where she has won seven singles titles, or perhaps play a doubles tournament or two alongside her sister Venus Williams, who is set to compete in the Indian Wells singles draw after accepting a wild card.
“It would be nice to see, just from my point of view and tennis fans’, for sure,” Djokovic said. “She’s one of the greatest athletes, really. It would be great to have her back too.”
Djokovic Eyes Another Title
Djokovic is seeded third at Indian Wells, returning to action after a runner-up finish to Carlos Alcaraz in the Australian Open final. He reflected on his recent performance, saying, “For me that has been a phenomenal result. I have proven to myself primarily and to others that I can still compete at the highest level and beat these guys. So my logic is why not keep going as long as I have that fire and flair and quality and also motivation to do that.”
The 38-year-old, who has won five Indian Wells titles—tied with Roger Federer for the most in history—acknowledged the challenges ahead, having not reached the quarter-finals since his last title in 2016. Djokovic will begin his 2026 campaign on Saturday against either Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard or Kamil Majchrzak.
With Williams’ potential return looming and Djokovic seeking more titles, the tennis world is bracing for an exciting season ahead.