Speculation over a possible comeback by Serena Williams was the main focus of Episode 6 of The Big T, as hosts Andrea Petkovic and Mark Petchey examined signs that the 23-time Grand Slam champion may be preparing to return to professional competition.
Williams, who has not played a competitive match in more than three years, has completed the required registration process with the International Tennis Integrity Agency and will be eligible to compete again from February 22. Petchey believes the move suggests careful planning, saying there appears to be something developing behind the scenes that could lead to a significant announcement.
Petkovic pointed to the timing of upcoming tournaments, noting that the Austin event begins on February 23 and that Venus Williams has already secured a wildcard entry. She said the close scheduling has fuelled further speculation about a potential return.
Attention has also turned to the American hard-court swing, including the BNP Paribas Open and the Miami Open. Petchey suggested that Williams could begin by playing doubles with her sister before considering a move back into singles competition.
Petkovic added that Williams’ decision to rejoin the anti-doping testing pool for six months reflects serious intent. She argued that such a commitment would be unlikely without a clear plan to compete again at the highest level.
The discussion then widened to include other major sporting events. The hosts shared their views on the Super Bowl halftime show featuring Bad Bunny, with Petkovic saying artistic performances are not meant to appeal to everyone and should reflect an artist’s personal experience and identity.
Source: KOSU
Petchey also commented on Lindsay Vonn competing at the Winter Olympics shortly after suffering a serious knee injury. He praised her willingness to take responsibility for her own decisions and described her actions as inspiring.
The episode also covered developments within tennis. Petkovic and Petchey discussed contrasting opinions between coach Patrick Mouratoglou and former player Jo-Wilfried Tsonga over which era has produced the strongest competitors, highlighting how the sport continues to evolve.
In addition, Petchey pointed to a strong week for British tennis, praising the form of Jack Draper, Katie Boulter, and Emma Raducanu.
With renewed focus on Williams’ future and several storylines unfolding across the sport, Episode 6 reflected a period of growing anticipation and debate within the global tennis community.
