Sabalenka urges Wimbledon to allow players' dogs

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has publicly urged Wimbledon to reconsider its long-standing policy prohibiting dogs from the tournament grounds, calling the rule emotionally painful for players who travel with their pets. The plea came after her second-round victory at the All England Club this week, where she advanced to face Jelena Ostapenko in the third round.

Sabalenka, who owns a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Ash, said she understands the club's concerns about potential damage to the historic venue but argued that players' dogs are well-trained and pose little risk. She described Ash as a crucial source of comfort and stress relief, calling walks with him a form of meditation. "It just sometimes hurts to leave him at the house by himself," Sabalenka said. "He suffers staying alone. It really hurts my feelings... Wimbledon, please, I beg you, let the dogs inside."

The appeal highlights a contrast with other major tournaments. At the French Open last month, Roland Garros provided a dog concierge service and issued accreditation for players' pets, a policy embraced by several top players. Wimbledon, however, maintains a strict policy allowing only service dogs and security...