Unlike team sports like soccer, where players practice in groups, huddle on the field after victories and exchange pep talks after losses, tennis is more of an individual effort. Players often prepare for and work on matches alone. Of course, most players have coaches, trainers and families stopping by, but around-the-clock camaraderie is not a given, especially on the road.
So how do athletes find companionship during competition? For many athletes, the answer is love: They rely on the unconditional love of their dogs. Registered as an emotional support animal To get around certain tournaments’ no-pet policies.
Tennis Pup is the unofficial mascot ( It’s so cute! Pets, unlike those in the stands, can be a real support when players are at their worst. That’s certainly the case with the following 2024 US Open competitors, who tell SELF how important their pets are to their mental game:
Bianca Andreescu’s toy poodle, Coco, brings her “so much joy and happiness.”
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“When I’m with Coco and when I watch her, she definitely brings a different energy, whether I lose or win, but especially when I lose,” Andreescu, who won the U.S. Open in 2019, told SELF. “When I see her, I just smile and in a way I forget about the loss. I wish that feeling could last longer, but every time I’m with her, she brings me joy and happiness.”
Coco earned her own eligibility tag at this year’s U.S. Open. Showed off on TikTokand Relaxed in the stands The adorable curly-haired pup accompanied Andreescu when she competed for Canada at the Paris Olympics this summer. Luckily, he fits snugly in a tote bag. “I’m happy we could celebrate together,” Andreescu said. He told reporters at that time.
Danielle Collins’ puppy Quincy has “magical healing powers.”
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