Imagine the greatest comeback in tennis—now picture it unfolding on your TV screen, rich with drama, passion, and perseverance. That’s the thrilling premise behind Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestselling novel. And the good news is that the Carrie Soto Is Back TV series has been officially announced!
Since the series revolves around tennis, one of the legends of the sport, Serena Williams, will serve as executive producer on the upcoming adaptation.
Taylor Jenkins Reid has become one of the most compelling voices in modern fiction. Her journey began with Forever, Interrupted in 2013. Today, she’s the author of multiple New York Times bestsellers, including The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Daisy Jones & the Six, Malibu Rising, and Carrie Soto Is Back.
In fact, most of her novels are being adapted for the screen, with two of them already released. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo and her recently released novel Atmosphere are being adapted into movies, while Malibu Rising is being adapted into a TV series.
And now, it was confirmed earlier this year that Netflix will develop a series adaptation of Carrie Soto is Back!
Reid’s books often feature women in the spotlight—Hollywood stars, rock legends, glamorous dynasties—and Carrie Soto Is Back continues the tradition with a champion athlete as its hero. Published in 2022, the novel follows 37-year-old tennis legend Carrie Soto as she emerges from retirement for one last season to defend her record.
What is the Plot of the Carrie Soto is Back TV Series?
At its core, ‘Carrie Soto Is Back’ is about ambition, legacy, and the sacrifices that come with greatness. The series will follow Carrie Soto, a world-class tennis champion who has retired at the top of her game—until a rising star threatens to break her long-standing record.
Determined not to be erased from history, Carrie decides to come out of retirement for one last season. Alongside her former coach and estranged father, she trains relentlessly to prove that she still has what it takes to be the best.
The story isn’t just about tennis; it’s about identity, aging, love, and the cost of wanting more. Expect a mix of sports drama, emotional storytelling, and the author’s signature ability to craft flawed yet unforgettable heroines.
If you haven’t read the book, here’s the official synopsis to give you an idea of the plot:
By the time Carrie retires from tennis, she is the best player the world has ever seen. She has shattered every record and claimed twenty Slam titles. And if you ask her, she is entitled to every one. She sacrificed nearly everything to become the best, with her father as her coach.
But six years after her retirement, Carrie finds herself sitting in the stands of the 1994 US Open, watching her record be taken from her by a brutal, stunning, British player named Nicki Chan.
At thirty-seven years old, Carrie makes the monumental decision to come out of retirement and be coached by her father for one last year in an attempt to reclaim her record. Even if the sports media says that they never liked the ‘Battle-Axe’ anyway. Even if her body doesn’t move as fast as it did. And even if it means swallowing her pride to train with a man she once almost opened her heart to: Bowe Huntley. Like her, he has something to prove before he gives up the game forever.
In spite of it all, Carrie Soto is back for one epic final season!
Carrie Soto is Back TV Adaptation Release Date:
As of now, Netflix has not announced an official release date for ‘Carrie Soto Is Back.’ Since the series is still in early development, fans can likely expect it to premiere sometime in 2026 or 2027. And that’s only if the production progresses smoothly and without any issues or breaks.
Therefore, neither Netflix nor the author has announced any release date for the book’s adaptation!
Given Netflix’s recent success with adaptations and the ongoing demand for book-to-screen projects, the streamer is expected to prioritize production, though filming has not yet begun.
Casting and Production Updates:
The Carrie Soto Is Back TV adaptation is officially in the works at Netflix, with Serena Williams on board as an executive producer. For a story about reclaiming dominance in tennis, there couldn’t be a more fitting partner.
The tennis legend brings not only authenticity but also her own global star power to the project, raising anticipation to unprecedented levels.
Amanda Kate Shuman has been tapped as the screenwriter, and Taylor Jenkins Reid herself will serve as an executive producer to ensure that the adaptation stays true to the heart of the novel.
Casting, however, has yet to be announced.
Production is currently in early development, so viewers can expect more news in the coming months, including casting announcements, set photos, and behind-the-scenes teasers.
Should You Read the Book Instead?
The answer to this question is always yes, at least in my opinion.
While the TV adaptation will bring Carrie’s fierce personality and dramatic matches to life on screen, the book offers an intimate, inside look at her thoughts, emotions, and inner battles that no visual medium can fully capture.
Taylor Jenkins Reid is known for writing characters who feel real, and Carrie Soto is no exception. Reading the book first allows you to experience her grit, vulnerability, and determination in Reid’s distinct voice.
Plus, by the time Carrie Soto is Back TV series arrives, you’ll be able to compare how Netflix reimagines those pivotal matches and emotional moments.
Upcoming Book Adaptations: