World number one Aryna Sabalenka is making an emotional case for a policy shift at one of tennis’s most prestigious institutions, and her argument hinges on one fluffy companion: her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy, Ash.
The All England Club has long maintained strict rules about what can and cannot set paw on its hallowed grounds. Service dogs and certified assistance animals are welcome, but the family pets that travel alongside the sport’s elite? They’re out of luck. Sabalenka, who regularly brings Ash on tour, isn’t hiding her frustration. Wimbledon, please, I beg you, let the dogs inside, she pleaded during a Wednesday press conference.
It’s a request that might seem frivolous at first—this is one of tennis’s most storied tournaments, after all, with centuries of tradition baked into its manicured lawns and pristine facilities. But consider the context: just last month at Roland Garros, the French Open embraced a dramatically different approach. Mirra Andreeva and Alexander Zverev posed with canine companions during trophy ceremonies, charming audiences worldwide. The French Open even created official accreditations and a dedicated dog concierge service to handle the growing number of players traveling with their pets. The contrast between the two tournaments couldn’t be sharper.
Sabalenka understands Wimbledon’s hesitation—the club’s concerns about potential damage to the property are legitimate concerns. But she’s also pushing back with a simple counterargument: these aren’t untrained strays. All of our dogs are very well-trained, she said. They’re not going to do anything wrong inside of this beautiful building. It’s a spirited defense of the pet contingent that’s become increasingly visible on social media, where athletes share glimpses of their companions’ lives on tour. For Sabalenka, the attachment runs deeper than Instagram content. It just sometimes hurts to leave him at the house by himself, she explained, describing Ash as a little fluffy thing that craves cuddles and affection. Walking him provides some sort of meditation—a rare respite in a grueling schedule that stretches across continents year-round.
Whether Wimbledon will budge remains unclear. Organisers have been contacted for comment, but no policy shift appears imminent. Come July 11, if Sabalenka manages to lift the Venus Rosewater Dish, Ash will be watching from somewhere far away, waiting for his owner’s return. For a sport that celebrates the human drama of competition, there’s something poignant about the idea that tradition might still demand this particular separation.
