Serena Williams Shares Heartbroken Post As Dog Of 16 Years Passes Away

This is so sad.
Serena Williams‘ dog Jackie died on Tuesday morning, the tennis superstar revealed on social media.
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The 16-year-old dog had been with Serena nearly her entire life, so the bond was incredibly strong between the two.
The athlete shared the news, along with adorable pics of the pup on Instagram, writing (below):

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. 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 10:52am PST

My angelA photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 10:55am PST

Jackie- Lauralei, Chip, and Mommy miss you so much. We will never forget u. ❤️ thank you for the kindness and joy you brought us.A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 11:07am PST

Awwww!! She was such a beautiful and sweet-looking little girl.
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Our thoughts go out to Serena and the rest of her family — both humans and her two other pups — during this very difficult time.
[Image via Serena Williams/Instagram.]