Article by David Istrate – Published Wednesday, March 11, 2026 7:15 p.m. / Updated Wednesday, March 11, 2026 11:50 p.m.
After qualifying for the round of 16 at Indian Wells, Aryna Sabalenka (27, 1 WTA) opened up about her new dog, Ash, and revealed that she named him as a tribute to the legendary triple Grand Slam singles winner Arthur Ashe.
On Tuesday, March 10, Aryna Sabalenka faced Naomi Osaka (28, 16 WTA) in the third round at Indian Wells. Belarus has evolved very well, won 6-2, 6-4 and managed to qualify for the round of 16 of the competition.
Aryna Sabalenka named her dog Ash after the famous tennis player and activist Arthur Ashe
After the victory in California, Sabalenka attended the press conference with Ash, her dog, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. She said she made a deal with Anton Dubrov, her coach, who promised her that if she won the US Open she would have the right to buy a dog.
On 6 September 2025, Sabalenka defeated Amanda Anisimova in the final at Flushing Meadows, 6–3, 7–6 (3), and claimed her 4th Grand Slam title. A few months later, the world leader bought a dog, which she wanted to give a name related to New York.
“Apple doesn't sound good, so I chose Ash,” Sabalenka explained, referring to the “Big Apple,” New York City's nickname. Ash comes from Arthur Ashe, American activist and tennis player who played from 1959 to 1980 and won 3 Grand Slam titles in singles and two in doubles.
The legendary sportsman died in 1993, at the age of 49, and the center court at the US Open bears his name. Sabalenka won both the 2024 and 2025 Flushing Meadows tournaments, receiving the trophy at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Arya Sabalenka's Attitude Changed by Ash: “When I feel like lashing out, I pet him and I feel better”
She said she thought about getting a Dachshund but ultimately chose a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
“My mother had a spaniel and I loved that dog. They are good family dogs. They are very attached to their owners, super calm, super cute and very cuddlySabalenka said, as quoted by ESPN.
“I feel like I'm much more settled, calmer, more in control. Every time I feel like lashing out at my team, I just pet Ash and I feel better,” the 27-year-old added.
In the Round of 16 at Indian Wells, Sabalenka will fight with Victoria Mboko (19 years old, 10 WTA)who passed Amanda Anisimova (24 years old, 6 WTA) with a score of 6-4, 6-1. The two met in 2026 and in the round of 16 of the Australian Open, when Sabalenka won 6-1, 7-6 (1).
