Serena Williams returns to Wimbledon at 44 amid doping concerns

U.S. tennis legend Serena Williams, age 44, received a wildcard to compete in the Wimbledon singles draw, marking her first appearance at the tournament since 2016. She also entered the doubles competition with her sister Venus, and earlier made a doubles debut at Queen's Club.

Williams is a spokesperson for the telemedicine platform Ro and has publicly used GLP‑1 medication, prescribed for diabetes and obesity, to lose about 14 kg. The World Anti‑Doping Agency (WADA) monitors GLP‑1 drugs, though they are not currently on the prohibited list, prompting speculation about possible “metabolic doping.” Williams faces scrutiny over her use of the medication and her participation in the anti‑doping whereabouts system, but has said the process is “tedious” and “unprofessional.”

The return has sparked debate within the tennis community about the impact of weight‑loss drugs on performance, with officials and scientists questioning whether the substances could enhance athletic ability.