How Novak Djokovic will feel about Serena Williams coming back after what he said last year

Williams is widely considered an all-time great, but clearly feels she can still give more to the sport at the age of 44.

Her imminent return is set to delight tennis fans, but also her fellow legend Novak Djokovic, who made his feelings on Williams clear back at the 2025 US Open.

You can bring one tennis legend out of retirement. Who do you pick and why?

Novak Djokovic challenged Serena Williams to return to tennis

Djokovic was playing at the tournament in New York, but behind the scenes discussed Williams introducing fellow icon Maria Sharapova into the International Tennis Hall of Fame around that time.

When asked if that link-up between the former WTA rivals was at all surprising to him, the ATP legend said: “Yeah, it was.

“It was surprising, but a very nice gesture from Serena to be there for Maria. They had some really intense rivalries and incredible matches over the years.

“But they said it, they were honest I think during their speeches. Serena I think mentioned that Maria or people probably think about Serena as one of the last people that would be there to introduce.

“But at the same time, as she said in her speech, which I think she beautifully, eloquently explained, that people thought that they are miles apart in their differences, but they were actually very much the same in terms of they wanted the same thing and competed on the same tour for so many years.

“No, it was great. It was great. It was a wonderful moment, and I think Maria deserves it. Obviously incredible champion and an icon off the court as well with her brand and everything she has built over the years.

“Of course, seeing Serena in any shape or form around tennis is great. You know, we miss her. She still hasn’t officially retired. So I invite her, I challenge her.

“Because she’s such a great competitor, when somebody challenges her, she never refuses. So I challenge Serena, come back on the tour next year.”

Serena Williams coming back is amazing for tennis

The American is indeed coming back, but importantly Williams is “not coming back to be average”, according to her former coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

However, regardless of her level, the mere fact that she will be back on a court is hugely exciting for tennis and fans of the sport.

Williams is a legendary figure, and should still be both capable and motivated to produce some of the magic she used to perform on a regular basis.

The veteran should also help inspire many others to lift their game, ultimately with the hope of taking her on before she quits for good.

She is, of course, following in the footsteps of her older sister, with Venus Williams having returned to tennis last summer after a 16-month break.

Whether or not the duo will reunite on the doubles court remains to be seen, with that iconic partnership boasting 14 career Grand Slam titles in the format.