Overview

• Martina Navratilova was turned away from The Ivy Cafe in Wimbledon Village on July 8 after staff declined to admit her dog, Lulu, under the venue’s no-pet policy.
• The tennis legend shared the refusal on X, calling her subsequent reservation at a dog-friendly restaurant her “plan B.”
• Brad Gilbert publicly sided with Navratilova in a tweet, arguing that “dogs are better behaved.”
• Navratilova enjoyed dinner at Cent Anni, lauding its welcoming atmosphere for pets and praising its pasta offerings.
• The episode has prompted discussion on equal enforcement of hospitality policies and the limits of celebrity privilege at major events.