Beyond heartbreaking. Serena Williams posted a touching tribute to her dog Jackie, who died on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at the age of 16.
“My special friend in which I got at [age] 17 left me today,” the tennis pro, 34, wrote alongside an Instagram photo collage, featuring herself with Jackie. “She was 16 years young and up until a few days ago was still sprinting. Her poor body gave out this morning and she had a way of telling me it was time for me to be brave and let her go. With my dad by my side, we were able to say a loving goodbye. She was with me from 1999 until today and I miss her so much. I got out of the shower this afternoon and she was not there to lick my leg as she always did every day to remind me how much she loved me. I feel so lucky to have such a special friend. #breakingheart #bff Jackie Balla Pete Williams I will miss you and your memory will live forever.”
The athlete later shared another snap of her pup, who would often accompany her to her many matches, standing in her tennis bag.
“My angel,” Williams captioned the pic.
The Wimbledon champ — an avid animal lover — also shared a cute collage featuring Jackie and her other four-legged friends.
“Jackie — Lauralei, Chip, and Mommy miss you so much,” Williams wrote. “We will never forget you. Thank you for the kindness and joy you brought us.”
