Serena Williams is in mourning after losing her beloved friend Jackie, the Jack Russell whom she shared her life with for the past 16 years. The tennis superstar paid tribute to her best friend on her Instagram account.
A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 10:52am PST
Jackie knew everything about the tennis champion. Serena adopted her when she was just 17 years old, only two weeks before she won her first Grand Slam tournament.The Jack Russell slept in her bed and stepped foot on all the tennis courts around the world with her loving human. Together, they celebrated her victories and commiserated her defeats.On her Instagramaccount, Serena Williams posted several photos of her loyal friend as well as a long message in tribute:
Today really is hard for me. My special friend in which I got at 17 (2 weeks before I won my very first Grand Slam) left me today. 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.
A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 10:55am PST
She went on to say:
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 everyday to remind me how much she loved me. I feel so lucky to have such a special friend. Give your dog, cat, pet a big hug.#breakingheart #bff Jackie Baila Pete Williams, I will miss you and your memory will live forever.
A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 11:07am PST
At least the tennis star is surrounded by companions to help her through this hard time. Jackie-Lauraleil and Chip, her two other dogs, are there to comfort her. We are sending them all our love and support!
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