Serena Williams Cleared to Compete From Feb. 22 After Completing Anti-Doping Return Steps

Overview

• The International Tennis Integrity Agency added Williams, 44, to its reinstated players list, making her eligible to play starting Feb. 22.
• Her eligibility follows six months in the International Registered Testing Pool that began Oct. 6, meeting out-of-competition testing requirements.
• Williams has not committed to returning, after a December post denying a comeback and a January TV interview in which she said she was simply enjoying life.
• If she chooses to compete soon, the ATX Open in Austin from Feb. 23 to March 1 is the first feasible event, though timing would be tight.
• Venus Williams remains active and holds wild cards for singles and doubles at the ATX Open, while Serena’s health history of pulmonary embolisms informs any decision to play.