It’s day 3 of the US Open as power-packed action continues to grace the courts of New York. However, fans of the favorite, Serena Williams, continue to mourn the absence of the homegirl. Adding to the star-studded list of absentees, both Serena and Venus Williams withdrew from the US Open 2021, citing recovery concerns.

Former World No. 1, Serena Williams has struggled with form and footing throughout this season. With a once gloriously garnered career, now riddled with injury and its setbacks, the American sensation has struggled with appearances on the court in recent times. Her most recent physical setback came at the 2021 Wimbledon championship.

The severity of the situation was such that Serena is yet to make an appearance since her accident. Now, as she remains on the sidelines from the season-finale, coach Patrick Mouratoglou comes bearing news on her future.

“Nothing is decided yet”- Patrick Mouratoglou

Earlier this year, Serena fell victim to a mid-game slip and injured her right thigh at the Wimbledon Championship. Ever since, she has been in rehab, trying to fasten her recovery, working towards her return to the court. However, both she and her fans had to settle for disappointment.

Bringing ease to fans worldwide with a much-needed update, Patrick said, “Nothing is decided. Everything is open. I don’t know if she’s done or if she wants to do one more year or two more years or whatever. I have no idea. So we’re gonna probably after the tournament sit down and talk about it.” 

New York is one of the most exciting cities to play in. Undoubtedly, withdrawing from the tournament she’s won 6 times in her career would be a tough pill to swallow. Addressing the same, Patrick said, “[Serena is going through] stages where she needs to digest the fact she didn’t play here. And then it’s gonna be time to think about the future and what she wants to do.”

Watch this story: Top Racket Smashing Moments at Us Open Over the Years

Will Serena Williams claim her 24th Grand Slam title?

Fans are hopeful that Serena’s quest for a 24th Grand Slam title will begin again in 2022. However, so far, it’s not been an entirely promising run. Since 2017, Serena has appeared in 4 finals and has lost them all.

With injury getting the better of the legend, fans await to see if a return is possible, let alone a title to mark it. Can an injury-prone Serena Williams come back to the court that she so dearly loves? Or is it time to call it quits?

Read more: Dominic Thiem Opens Up on Player’s Mental Health Following his Withdrawal From the US Open 2021