NEW YORK — Earlier than Aryna Sabalenka reached the US Open semifinals for the fifth straight yr, she was only a relatable 20-something-year-old who fell in love with a rescue canine.
Throughout Fan Week, held throughout qualifying on the grounds on the event, Muddy Paws Rescue introduced a few of their New York-based canine to the participant backyard. Sabalenka, the world No. 1 and defending champion, met one superb boy appropriately named Wilson — and he or she was instantly smitten.
She rapidly took to her Instagram story to share an image of herself with Wilson exterior of Arthur Ashe Stadium and requested her followers and followers for some assist.
“Guys please assist me to persuade my group to undertake this sweetheart,” she wrote alongside the picture.
Quick-forward two weeks and the story has a cheerful ending. Though Sabalenka did not get the pet, he’s going dwelling with one other tennis champion.
On Thursday, Asia Muhammad, at the moment ranked No. 17 in doubles and the winner of 13 doubles titles on the WTA Tour, introduced she had adopted Wilson. Posting a collection of images of them collectively — together with one during which Wilson is sporting his official US Open credential — Muhammad wrote, “New pup, who dis? Welcome dwelling, Wilson.”
A number of of Muhammad’s pals and friends have been fast to congratulate her for the brand new addition.
Shelby Rogers, who retired after the US Open final season, stated, “Love this story! We love Wilson!!!” and Jessica Pegula, who was slated to play Sabalenka within the semifinals simply hours later, wrote, “Essentially the most good boy!”
Muhammad first turned conscious of Wilson and the opposite rescue canine who have been on-site after fellow American doubles participant Desirae Krawczyk posted a collection of images and movies of them on Instagram.
Krawczyk commented, “We love Wilson” on Muhammad’s put up on Thursday, and Muhammad responded by crediting Krawczyk for making it occur. “All began out of your put up,” she wrote.
Muhammad reached the quarterfinals in doubles on the US Open with accomplice Demi Schuurs. The 2 misplaced Tuesday, giving Muhammad the possibility to go dwelling along with her new finest buddy.
