Even tennis legends aren’t immune to restaurant policies. Martina Navratilova discovered this firsthand when she tried to bring her beloved miniature Dachshund, Lulu, to dinner at Wimbledon’s upscale Ivy Café. The 18-time Grand Slam champion was turned away, but her quick thinking and good humor turned a potential disappointment into a perfect evening.
Why Was Navratilova Denied Entry to the Ivy Café?
The Ivy Café at Wimbledon Village operates under a strict no-pets policy, which meant Navratilova couldn’t bring Lulu inside for dinner. Despite her legendary status in tennis and her close bond with the tiny Dachshund, the restaurant’s rules applied to everyone equally.
Rather than arguing or making a scene, Navratilova simply left and took to social media with characteristic wit. She posted on X about needing a “plan B,” keeping her followers guessing about her next move. The post showed her resilience and ability to find humor in everyday situations, even when they don’t go as planned.
“Well- tried to have dinner at the Ivy at Wimbledon, but they won’t allow Lulu into the restaurant- so plan B,” she wrote.
Well- tried to have dinner at the Ivy at Wimbledon, but they won’t allow Lulu into the restaurant- so plan B pic.twitter.com/mpNzsepgBx
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) July 8, 2025
This incident highlights how even the most accomplished athletes face the same everyday challenges as everyone else. Restaurant policies don’t bend for celebrity status, and Navratilova handled the situation with grace and understanding.
How Did Navratilova’s Plan B Work Out Better?
Navratilova’s backup plan led her to Cent Anni, an Italian restaurant at Wimbledon that welcomes four-legged guests. The switch proved to be a blessing in disguise, as she later shared that the experience was “actually better” than her original choice.
At Cent Anni, both Navratilova and Lulu were warmly welcomed. The tennis legend praised the restaurant’s “nice quiet and quick meal” and “great pasta,” while emphasizing how comfortable Lulu felt in the dog-friendly environment. She even posed for photos with the restaurant’s general manager, David Llewellyn, creating a memorable moment for everyone involved.
“Plan B was actually better- always a nice quiet and quick meal, great pasta and Lulu is welcome:), here with the big boss:),” she wrote.
Plan B was actually better- always a nice quiet and quick meal, great pasta and Lulu is welcome:), here with the big boss:) pic.twitter.com/nAEhYEZy26
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) July 8, 2025
The experience demonstrates how flexibility can lead to better outcomes. What started as a setback became an opportunity to discover a new favorite spot that accommodated her dining preferences and her companion’s presence.
What Makes Lulu Such a Special Companion?
Lulu has become far more than just a pet to Navratilova. The miniature Dachshund is small enough to fit in a travel bag, making her the perfect companion for the tennis legend’s busy schedule. This portability has allowed Lulu to accompany Navratilova to numerous high-profile events throughout the tennis world.
The bond between them extends beyond typical pet ownership. Lulu has appeared in commentary booths, including during the 2022 US Open, and has been spotted at various tournaments sitting comfortably on Navratilova’s lap. The dog’s calm demeanor in these high-energy environments speaks to her temperament and her security with her owner.
Lulu enjoying a night out with mom, @Martina #USOpen pic.twitter.com/RcyZ5tqIWP
— wta (@WTA) September 7, 2022
Their relationship showcases a softer side of the competitive tennis legend. While Navratilova built her reputation on fierce determination and athletic excellence, her interactions with Lulu reveal her nurturing nature and capacity for unconditional love.
The duo’s appearances at events like the BNP Paribas Open have become somewhat of a tradition, with Lulu even meeting other tennis stars. During the 2019 tournament, Navratilova brought her companion to the Amazon studio, sharing that Lulu feels at ease anywhere, especially when resting in her lap.
Great to visit the Amazon studio with lulu yesterday and meet the team! #BNPPO19 #PrimeVideo pic.twitter.com/kEZ41xCzRT
— Martina Navratilova (@Martina) March 16, 2019
Navratilova recently introduced World No. 4 Jack Draper to her adorable miniature Dachshund during the BNP Paribas Open in March. The meeting showed how Lulu has become a bridge between Navratilova and the current tennis players, creating connections beyond the sport itself.
Also Read: Martina Navratilova Lashes Out at US Open’s ‘Mockery’ of Mixed Doubles
