Tennis star Jessica Pegula may be known for her powerful forehand and steely composure on court, but off the court, she’s recently faced a heartbreak that’s got even the toughest fans misty-eyed. The world No. 5 shared emotional news from the road: her beloved dog, Tucker, has passed away—and judging by her heartfelt tribute, this pup wasn’t just a pet. He was family.
While hopping from tournament to tournament, Pegula took to social media to share the sad news with fans, posting sweet photos and cherished memories of the golden retriever who had clearly stolen her heart. Tucker had been by her side through the grind of the WTA tour, training days, injury comebacks, and quiet moments in between the chaos of her globetrotting career. Saying goodbye was clearly anything but easy.
“Tucker was my rock,” Pegula wrote, alongside a series of throwback pics showing him lounging on courtside benches and snoozing in hotel rooms like a true tour veteran. “No matter where I was in the world, coming home to him made everything better.”
Fans poured in with messages of support, many relating to the unique bond between athletes and their animals—those loyal companions who ask for nothing and give everything. For Pegula, whose life often unfolds in the spotlight and under intense pressure, Tucker was her anchor, the constant in a world that changes week to week.
While Jessica will no doubt continue to compete with her trademark focus, there’s no doubt this loss will linger. Her tribute to Tucker reminds us that behind the trophies and rankings are real people, living real moments of love, joy—and grief.
Here’s hoping Pegula finds comfort in the memories, and maybe someday, in another wagging tail waiting at home. But for now, the tennis world mourns with her—and Tucker’s paw prints remain forever etched in her heart.
