Tennis Stars Bring Dogs on Tour: French Open Adds Dog Concierge as Grand Slams Grapple with Pet Policies

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — Dogs are no longer just pets for top-tier tennis players—they’re trusted members of the touring entourage, appearing courtside, in player lounges, and even during trophy ceremonies at Grand Slam events.

With athletes spending most of the year navigating airports, hotels, and tournament venues thousands of miles from home, canines have emerged as vital sources of emotional grounding in a sport where isolation is a persistent challenge.

World number three Jessica Pegula told reporters at the U.S. Open this week that animals provide irreplaceable comfort. She said animals are amazing and explained why many female players now travel with pets: the road is emotionally taxing, and unconditional love from a dog offers unique psychological relief.

This year, the French Open formalized its embrace of four-legged guests by launching a dedicated “dog concierge” service and issuing official accreditation badges to 10 dogs—marking the first time the tournament extended such recognition to non-human participants.

At Roland Garros, Mirra Andreeva posed for her championship photos alongside Luna, the puppy belonging to coach Conchita Martinez, while Alexander Zverev shared his title moment with Mishka, his dachshund.

Strict biosecurity rules prevent dogs from accompanying players to the Australian Open, and Wimbledon permits only certified service or assistance dogs on site—forcing competitors like world number one Aryna Sabalenka to leave her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Ash, behind during the All England Club’s fortnight.

Sabalenka publicly urged reform in July, saying, Wimbledon, please, I beg you, let the dogs inside.

The U.S. Open, among the most pet-welcoming majors, featured rescue puppies from New York’s Muddy Paws Animal Rescue in the player garden during Fan Week—drawing visits from stars including Coco Gauff and Leylah Fernandez.

Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk, who travels with two dogs named Mander and Chich, described how daily responsibilities like feeding and walking them anchor her mentally. She said those routines help her stay grounded regardless of match outcomes or external pressures.

Pegula, who brings her three rescue dogs—Maddie, Des, and Mabel—to select events despite logistical hurdles, called it deeply meaningful to celebrate titles with them present. She reflected that those shared moments will remain cherished long after the dogs are gone.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)