In a stunning announcement that has taken both the sports world and animal lovers by surprise, Italian tennis sensation Jasmine Paolini has revealed plans to invest a staggering £15 million into creating a massive “Rescue Station” dedicated to saving stray and abandoned dogs.

Known for her fierce competitiveness on the court and warm personality off it, Paolini’s bold decision to dedicate such a substantial portion of her wealth to animal welfare has earned her widespread praise and admiration. The announcement, shared on her social media channels, quickly went viral — not only in Italy but across the globe — sparking a wave of emotional reactions, supportive messages, and renewed attention to the plight of stray animals.
A Dream from the Heart
In a heartfelt video message, the 28-year-old tennis star spoke candidly about her motivation behind the initiative.
“Since I was a little girl, I’ve always had a deep love for animals. But I’ve also seen the sadness and fear in the eyes of dogs left behind, wandering the streets with no home, no safety, no love. I can’t ignore it anymore,” Paolini said, her voice cracking with emotion.
According to Paolini, the “Rescue Station” — which will be built in Tuscany, not far from her hometown — will serve as both a shelter and rehabilitation center. The facility will include veterinary clinics, open-air exercise spaces, adoption centers, behavioral training units, and a volunteer housing wing to welcome caregivers from around the world.
More Than Just a Shelter
What makes Paolini’s project unique is its scope. Unlike traditional dog shelters, her vision is to create a sanctuary where neglected dogs are not just housed temporarily but truly rehabilitated — physically and emotionally.
“We don’t want to just keep them alive,” she explained. “We want to help them trust again, love again. And we want to find them homes where they will never be forgotten again.”
The facility will be equipped with advanced medical care, therapy programs for traumatized animals, and even a “retirement area” for elderly dogs that are unlikely to be adopted. According to Paolini’s team, the first phase of construction will begin later this year, with doors expected to open by the end of 2026.
A Personal Commitment
Sources close to Paolini confirmed that she will be personally involved in funding and overseeing the project. The £15 million investment is coming directly from her personal earnings, including prize money and sponsorship deals. She has also committed to donating a percentage of her future earnings to the facility’s operations.
In a world where celebrity philanthropy is often symbolic or short-lived, Paolini’s long-term commitment has been praised as both rare and genuine.
Animal welfare groups across Italy have already expressed gratitude and support for the initiative, with some even offering to partner with the project to extend its reach nationwide.
Fans React with Emotion
The reaction online has been overwhelmingly positive. Within hours of her announcement, the hashtag #PaoliniRescue trended on Twitter and Instagram, with fans sharing stories of their own adopted dogs and praising Paolini’s compassion.
One fan wrote:
“I’ve always admired her as an athlete, but today she became a hero for animals too. Jasmine, you have a heart of gold.”
Another commented:
“This is the kind of role model the world needs. Someone who uses their fame and fortune to create real change.”
The Bigger Picture
Italy has long struggled with stray dog populations, especially in rural and southern regions. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands of dogs are abandoned each year — many of them left to fend for themselves on the streets. While government and private shelters exist, they are often overwhelmed and underfunded.
Animal rights activists hope that Paolini’s high-profile initiative will spark wider awareness and inspire more support for long-term solutions to this issue — including responsible pet ownership, education, spaying and neutering programs, and increased funding for shelters.
Final Thoughts
At a time when headlines are often filled with scandals and controversy, Jasmine Paolini’s announcement stands out for its sincerity and selflessness. By putting her money where her heart is, she’s not only saving thousands of dogs — she’s also setting a powerful example of what it means to use fame for good.
As the tennis star continues her journey on the court, she now carries with her an even greater mission — one filled with wagging tails, second chances, and unconditional love.
A true champion, in every sense of the word.