The tennis world may soon witness the return of one of its greatest icons. As speculation around Serena Williams continues to grow, Novak Djokovic has now weighed in, hinting that the 23-time Grand Slam champion could be closer to a comeback than many expect.

Speaking at the Indian Wells Masters, the Serbian star admitted that he believes Williams might soon return to competitive tennis, a prospect that has already generated excitement among players and fans alike. Djokovic didn’t hide his optimism when asked about the swirling rumors regarding Williams’ comeback. “I think she’s coming back,” he said on Wednesday at Indian Wells.

While the 24-time Grand Slam champion acknowledged that he hasn’t spoken directly to Williams about her plans, he suggested the general sentiment around the sport points toward a potential return. “I don’t know. I haven’t spoken to her, but I guess the sentiment is that she’s coming back,” Djokovic explained. “Where and how - singles, doubles… we don’t know. And if I’m in her position, I would hide it too.”

Williams, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in sports history, hasn’t played a competitive match since her third-round exit at the US Open in 2022. Following that appearance, she famously spoke about “evolving away from tennis,” signaling what many believed was the end of her legendary career. However, developments over the past few months have fueled fresh speculation about a comeback.

The American legend re-entered tennis’ anti-doping testing pool in December, a move that restored her eligibility to compete professionally. While Williams initially dismissed the idea of a comeback, she later softened her stance during an appearance on NBC’s Today show in January. “That’s not a yes or a no,” Williams said at the time. “I don’t know. I’m just going to see what happens.” Those remarks only amplified the buzz around her potential return, with players across the tour discussing the possibility of seeing the 23-time major champion back on court.

According to Novak Djokovic, the excitement within the locker room is real. “Everybody is excited, and it’s definitely something that’s very highly anticipated,” he said. Djokovic even floated a possible stage for Williams’ return - Wimbledon Championships, where she has enjoyed some of the most successful moments of her career.

The American has lifted the Wimbledon singles trophy seven times, making the All England Club one of the most fitting venues for a comeback if she decides to return. “I pick that one as well as her comeback,” Djokovic said. “I don’t know. I think she might maybe play a doubles tournament or two with Venus. That would be nice to see, just from my point of view and tennis fans’, for sure.”

A doubles reunion with her sister, Venus Williams, would certainly be a nostalgic sight for tennis fans. The Williams sisters dominated doubles for years, capturing 14 Grand Slam titles together and redefining the discipline with their power and athleticism. 

But while Novak Djokovic reflected on Williams’ potential comeback, he is also preparing for his own campaign at Indian Wells. The Serbian enters the tournament as the third seed, playing his first event since finishing runner-up at the Australian Open earlier this year.

How excited is Novak Djokovic to make a comeback at Indian Wells?

After an impressive start to the 2026 season, Novak Djokovic is eager to get back on court at the BNP Paribas Open, marking his first appearance since a thrilling run at the Australian Open earlier this year.

The Serbian legend arrives in Indian Wells with renewed confidence after proving he can still go toe-to-toe with the sport’s rising stars. His performance in Melbourne served as a reminder that even at 38, Djokovic remains a serious contender on tennis’ biggest stages.

Djokovic’s campaign in Melbourne featured one of the standout matches of the season - a dramatic five-set victory over Jannik Sinner, the two-time defending champion at the time. The Serbian then battled Carlos Alcaraz in the final but ultimately fell short against the World No. 1.

Despite the loss, Djokovic viewed the fortnight as a massive confidence boost. “That was an amazing start of the year for me,” Djokovic said during his pre-tournament press conference at Indian Wells. “Considering that I haven't been able to reach a major final since Wimbledon Championships 2024 and lost to either Sinner or Alcaraz at all of the Slams last year, it was just an incredible feeling to beat Sinner in five sets in one of the most epic matches that I played in recent times in Australia.”

The Serbian also reflected on his intense final against Alcaraz, acknowledging the Spaniard’s brilliance while taking pride in his own performance. “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,” he said. “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 2026 edition marks Djokovic’s 17th appearance at Indian Wells, a tournament where he has historically thrived. With five titles to his name, he is tied with Roger Federer for the most championships in the event’s history. That record could soon change if the Serbian lifts the trophy again.

“I have had a fair amount of success in this tournament,” Djokovic said. “It has always been one of my favorite tournaments to visit.” He also praised the unique atmosphere of the event, often referred to as “Tennis Paradise.”

“With the great weather, facilities, location, and proximity to L.A. - one of the best cities to visit, and the history of the event, it’s really a Tennis Paradise here, so rightfully named that way,” Novak Djokovic added.

Djokovic enters the tournament as the third seed and could potentially face Alcaraz once again in the semifinals if the draw unfolds according to seedings. The prospect of another blockbuster clash between the veteran and the current World No. 1 is already generating excitement among fans. Before that, however, Djokovic must navigate his opening match against either Kamil Majchrzak or Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.

“I really enjoy the thrill of competition,” Djokovic said. “I enjoy still getting out there in front of the fans and really being competitive.”

Even after more than two decades on tour, Djokovic insists his ambitions are as strong as ever.

“Of course, there are still objectives and goals,” he said. “You want to win, I want to achieve another title, hopefully win another Grand Slam.” Reflecting again on his Australian Open performance, Djokovic described it as a turning point that reaffirmed his ability to compete with the new generation.

With confidence restored and motivation intact, Novak Djokovic now steps onto the courts at Indian Wells hoping to add another chapter to his legendary career - and perhaps claim a record-breaking sixth title at Tennis Paradise. Can he do it?

Written by

Sayantan Roy

Sayantan Roy is a seasoned tennis journalist at EssentiallyTennis. He brings a deep tactical understanding to his coverage, breaking down head-to-head records, match dynamics, and on-court strategies with precision. For more than two years, Sayantan has been a key member of the Live Events desk, delivering real-time insights and data-backed predictions for the platform’s Matchday Preview section. His analytical approach has sparked editorial debates and drawn recognition from respected tennis voices, including commentator and analyst Olly_Tennis. Combining his experience in writing with a passion for insightful sports journalism, Sayantan’s work serves as a trusted reference point for tennis fans around the world.

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