In contrast to crew sports activities like soccer, during which gamers follow as a bunch, mob the sphere after a victory, and have pep talks after a loss, tennis is extra of a solo endeavor: Gamers typically put together for and course of their matches in solitude. Positive, most of them have coaches, trainers, and relations who pop in, however round the clock camaraderie isn’t a given, particularly on the street.

So how do they discover companionship after they’re competing? For a lot of athletes, the reply is lovable: They depend on the unconditional love of their canines. (Some have even registered them as emotional help animals to bypass sure tournaments’ anti-pet insurance policies.)

Not solely are tennis pups unofficial mascots (that look darn cute within the stands), however they will act as actual pillars of help for gamers of their lowest moments. That’s actually the case for the 2024 US Open opponents under, who instructed SELF simply how vital their furry pals are to their psychological recreation.

Bianca Andreescu’s toy poodle, Coco, gives “such pleasure and happiness.”

“Coco positively brings a distinct power once I’m along with her and once I see her, whether or not I lose a match or win a match, however primarily once I lose a match,” Andreescu, who received the US Open in 2019, tells SELF. “After I have a look at her, I simply smile and I type of neglect concerning the loss in a manner. I want that feeling may keep for longer, however each time I’m in her presence, she simply brings me such pleasure and happiness.”

Coco even received her personal credential tag on the US Open this yr, which she confirmed off on TikTok, and lounged within the stands whereas her mother performed. The valuable, curly-haired pup additionally accompanied Andreescu when she represented Canada on the Paris Olympics this summer season—it helps that she matches neatly in a tote bag. “I’m grateful that she’s in a position to have fun with me,” Andreescu instructed reporters on the time.

Danielle Collins’s pup, Quincy, has a “magical therapeutic energy.”