Sabalenka Says New Puppy Is Helping Her Stay Calm on the Court

World No. 1 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka says her newest teammate isn’t a coach or trainer — it’s a puppy.

Sabalenka recently introduced her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Ash, and the tennis star says the dog has quickly become an important source of emotional support during the demanding professional season.

The puppy even made a surprise appearance during a post-match interview after Sabalenka’s victory over Naomi Osaka at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California.

A Four-Legged Member of “Team Tiger”

Sabalenka first introduced Ash on social media last week, describing the puppy as the newest member of her support team — known as “Team Tiger.”

After defeating Osaka 6–2, 6–4 in the round of 16, Sabalenka explained how the dog has helped her stay calm during the emotional ups and downs of professional tennis.

“I feel like I’m much more settled, calm, more in control,” Sabalenka said during the interview.

She joked that when she feels frustration building during tournaments, she simply spends a moment petting her dog.

“Whenever I feel like going crazy on my team, I just pet Ash and I feel better,” she said.

A Promise After a Major Win

The puppy also represents a promise Sabalenka made with her coach.

She said she had agreed with coach Anton Dubrov that if she won the US Open, she would reward herself by getting a dog.

After fulfilling that goal, Sabalenka began searching for the right breed.

While she initially considered adopting a dachshund, she ultimately chose a spaniel — a breed she remembers fondly from childhood.

“My mom had a spaniel and I loved that dog,” she said, describing the breed as affectionate, calm and great with families.

A Name Inspired by Tennis History

Sabalenka also wanted the puppy’s name to carry a connection to New York and the US Open.

She considered naming the dog “Apple,” referencing the city’s famous nickname, but decided the name didn’t quite fit.

Instead, she chose Ash, a tribute to legendary American tennis champion Arthur Ashe, whose name is honored at the US Open’s main stadium court.

Balancing Success and Support

Sabalenka has been enjoying success on and off the court. Along with her recent victories, she recently announced her engagement to Brazilian businessman Georgios Frangulis.

But amid the pressure of staying at the top of the women’s tennis rankings, she says Ash has already made a meaningful difference.

For Sabalenka, the tiny puppy has quickly become an unexpected source of calm — and perhaps one of the most adorable members of her championship team.