Aryna Sabalenka: “Wimbledon, Please Let the Dogs In”
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has called on Wimbledon to reconsider its long-standing ban on dogs inside the All England Club, saying the rule makes it difficult to be separated from her pet during the tournament.
Sabalenka has travelled with her dog, Ash, for much of the 2026 season, but Wimbledon does not allow dogs on site.
While she said she understands the reasoning behind the rule, the Belarusian believes well-trained pets should be allowed.
“I don’t agree with that. I can understand why they made this decision.”
Sabalenka explained that her dog has become an important part of her routine away from the court.
“He really gets attached a lot. But he suffers staying alone. It really hurts my feelings.”
She also described spending time with Ash as a way to relax during tournaments.
“Going to the park with him, walking around, is also like some sort of meditation for me.”
The three-time Grand Slam champion ended her comments with a direct message to the tournament organisers.
“Wimbledon, please, I beg you, let the dogs inside.”
Sabalenka was not the only player to comment on the issue.
Alexander Zverev, who also travels with dogs, said he would welcome a change to the policy, while Coco Gauff took a more balanced view.
Although Gauff said she loves dogs, she believes there are areas where they should not be allowed because of safety concerns.
“I definitely think there’s a time and place.”
She pointed to busy spaces such as gyms and locker rooms, explaining that she had seen several close calls involving dogs around the tour.
For now, Wimbledon has not indicated that it plans to change its policy, meaning Ash will have to wait outside while Sabalenka continues her campaign at the All England Club.
