Watch: Anna Kalinskaya's pet dog runs into court to celebrate her win over Emma Raducanu

Dubai: Russian tennis star Anna Kalinskaya celebrated a special moment at the DC Open semi-final — not just with a win, but with a heartwarming cameo from her pet dog, Bella. After defeating British player Emma Raducanu 6-4, 6-3, the 26-year-old was followed around the court by Bella, who ran out to join her owner, tail wagging, before being lifted into the air to cheers from the Washington crowd.

This wasn’t Bella’s first appearance on court. Just a day earlier, she had made a similar dash after Kalinskaya's straight-sets victory over No 4 seed Clara Tauson. The pint-sized pup has quickly become a fan favorite, even earning her own courtside chair and towel to sit on during matches.

As Kalinskaya eyes her first WTA title, Bella’s growing presence is adding charm to her campaign.

Meanwhile, in the other semi-final, 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez outlasted 2022 Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in a marathon match, winning 6-7 (2-7), 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (7-3) after an intense three hours and 16 minutes on Saturday.