American player Coco Gauff supported the idea of allowing dogs on site but highlighted safety concerns in crowded athlete areas.
She recalled past incidents where pets narrowly avoided injuries in high-activity zones like the player gym and locker rooms.
“I love dogs,” Gauff said.
She emphasized that while she enjoys animals, the restricted layout of the private club requires certain boundaries to protect the pets themselves.
“I definitely think there are certain places dogs shouldn't be for safety reasons, like the gym and the locker room.”
Gauff detailed a close call from last year's tournament: “Last year, I don't want to call out the player, but someone threw a medicine ball at me.
If I was a little dog, that would freaking hurt.” She suggested keeping animals out of food preparation and heavy training areas for cleanliness and safety.
“I wouldn't mind them around the site, but I just definitely think, because there's been times where I almost stepped on somebody's dog, almost threw a medicine ball at someone's dog,” Gauff said.
>>> Swift's Wedding Won't Slow Her Down, Experts Say
Following her straight-sets victory, Sabalenka is scheduled to face Jeļena Ostapenko in the third round. Ostapenko advanced after defeating Great Britain's Harriet Dart.
