'If She Wants To Come Back...': Aryna Sabalenka Excited About Serena Williams' Possible Return

Last Updated:January 29, 2026, 19:43 IST

Sabalenka, who moved into her fourth straight AO final with her decimation of Elina Svitolina, believes that Serena Williams' return to the court would bode well for the sport.

Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after defeating Elina Svitolina of Ukraine in their semifinal match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara)

Aryna Sabalenka, who moved into her fourth straight Australian Open final with her decimation of Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina in the semifinal on Thursday, believes that Serena Williams’ return to the court would bode well for the sport.

American icon Williams, who hasn’t featured since a third-round loss at the 2022 US Open, did not shut doors on her return after having enrolled in the anti-doping test pool in December.

“That’s amazing. I heard she’s enjoying her life. Whatever makes her happy, I’m happy for her," Sabalenka said.

“If she wants to come back, that’s her decision. It’s going to be fun to see her back on tour," the Belarusian continued.

“She’s got the personality, and she’s a fun one. It will be cool."

Svitolina also said it would be amazing for the sport if the 23-time Major winner opts to come back to the circuit.

“She’s such a great champion and achieved so much, did so much for our sport and been an inspiration for women around the world," she added.

Earlier in the day, Williams broke the internet by leaving questions about her possible return on an open-ended note.

“I’m just having fun and enjoying my life right now," Williams said.

“Did I re-enter? I didn’t know if I was out. Listen, I can’t discuss this," the American laughed when quizzed about her enrolment in the anti-doping pool.

Sabalenka, who posted a 6-2, 6-3 triumph over Svitolina, will take on Elena Rybakina, who got the better of Jessica Pegula in the other semifinal with a score of 6-3, 7-6(7). The Belarussia, who went down to American Madison Keys in the final of the Happy Slam last year missing out on a coveted three-peat, will look to remedy her follies when she take on Rybakina in the summit clash at the Rod Laver Arena on Saturday for the title.

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