Navratilova Denied Cafe Entry Over Dog Policy

Martina Navratilova, 18-time Grand Slam champion and BBC commentator, was denied entry to The Ivy Cafe in Wimbledon Village after arriving with her dog, Lulu, due to the restaurant's strict no-pet policy except for assistance dogs. Navratilova shared the incident on social media, prompting a debate among followers about celebrity treatment and pet policies in public dining spaces. The restaurant staff did not recognize Navratilova, and she chose to dine at a nearby Italian restaurant instead. The story drew over a million views online and reactions from tennis figures such as Brad Gilbert, who criticized the policy, alongside others who supported it for health reasons. Both Wimbledon and the All England Club also prohibit non-assistance animals, reinforcing health and safety rules at the tournament. Navratilova responded to the situation with humor and continued her commentary duties at Wimbledon.