Carlos Alcaraz, the young tennis prodigy, surprised the world this week not with a master stroke on the court, but with a deeply humane and committed gesture: the creation of Dogtopia , a recovery and wellness center for abused, abandoned, or traumatized dogs.
With an initial investment of $5 million from his own pocket, the complex—located on the outskirts of Bologna, in northern Italy—spreads over 6 hectares and promises to become much more than a simple shelter. According to him, Dogtopia will be a center of healing, re-education, play, and love for animals that society has left behind.
“It’s not just a shelter. It’s a place where dogs can regain their confidence, run again, play again, and love again,” Alcaraz said in an exclusive interview. “We have training camps, water play areas, 24/7 veterinary care, but above all, we have love.”
Although the project was kept secret for months, now that it’s publicized, Dogtopia has captured the attention of international media, animal lovers, and celebrities alike. The complex’s design includes hydrotherapy pools, sensory training areas, relaxation rooms with light and aroma therapy, and an adoption pavilion where families can meet their future companions.
The impetus behind this ambitious project is deeply personal. In 2021, while on tour in Latin America, Alcaraz found an injured and starving puppy outside a hotel in Buenos Aires. He decided to adopt him and named him Taco . Since then, Taco has become his faithful companion on and off the court.
“That dog saved me more than I saved him,” Carlos said. “When the world of tennis seemed too demanding or lonely, he was always there. He made me see animals differently. He made me see life differently.”
From that experience, the tennis player began quietly collaborating with shelters in Spain and Argentina. But he felt something more structured was needed, something that could have a more lasting impact. Thus, Dogtopia was born .
Although many expected Carlos to build the complex in his native Murcia, he chose Bologna for strategic reasons. He explained that Italy has an emerging animal rights culture, a central location for accessing European resources, and the local government was “enthusiastic and generous” from the outset.
“The mayor welcomed me personally and offered me logistical support, tax relief, and even help coordinating with veterinary universities. It was an easy decision,” he said.
Alcaraz makes no secret of his ambitions: he wants Dogtopia to become a national, and even international, model. He’s developing a manual with protocols for dog rehabilitation, feeding, and social reintegration, with the intention of sharing it for free with other rescue centers.
She has also invited other athletes—such as Rafael Nadal, Lionel Messi, and Garbiñe Muguruza—to join the cause. “Many of us have resources, influence, and a love for animals. It’s time to use all of that for a greater purpose.”
In parallel, educational programs are being created for local schools, where children can visit the center and learn about empathy, respect, and responsibility through direct contact with animals. Volunteer programs for young people will also be available, and the possibility of training some dogs as therapy animals for hospitals and nursing homes is being considered.
Although most reactions have been positive, criticism has also emerged on social media from those who believe an athlete should focus more on his career. Some have even suggested the project is a public relations strategy following his Wimbledon semifinal exit this year.
Alcaraz, as always, responded calmly. “Tennis is my passion, but it’s not my only identity. I believe we can also be champions off the court, by doing good.”
The center is scheduled to open in spring 2026. In the meantime, staff training has already begun, and applications for collaboration from various European NGOs and veterinary clinics are being received.
Carlos Alcaraz has already won many titles. But with Dogtopia , he may have begun to build his most important: one where the trophy isn’t gold, but hope.
