Potapova brings – Anastasia Potapova, the 28th-ranked player, appeared at the Roland Garros 2026 press conference with her dog, described as very calm and a source of luck. The Austrian national—formerly Russian—said she travels with the dog across European tournaments and feel
Anastasia Potapova arrived at the Roland Garros 2026 press conference with a small, unusual companion—her dog.
The 28th ranked player, now an Austrian national, answered questions while the animal stayed calm throughout. She looked composed as she spoke, and the moment immediately stood out in a setting where athletes are usually flanked by handlers, officials, and schedules—not a pet.
Potapova later linked her dog to her routine on tour. She said she usually travels with her dog to all the tournaments she plays in Europe, calling the dog “very calm,” adding that she “doesn’t eat much,” and insisting that her behavior is “great.”
For Potapova, the dog’s presence isn’t just a comforting distraction. She told journalists that the animal gives her “extra happiness” and creates “a very positive atmosphere” around her during tournaments. She also said she believes the dog brings her luck. explaining that “ever since I have had her with me. I win many matches.”.
The scene has already sparked attention beyond tennis circles, with a video clip from the press-conference moment showing the dog staying composed while Potapova fielded questions before her first-round appearance at Roland-Garros.
Potapova’s first round is ahead, and at this press conference the story was simple: in the noise and pressure of Paris, she brought something quiet—then credited that calm with helping her find her footing.
Anastasia Potapova Roland Garros tennis dog press conference 2026 French Open Women