“I Miss My Dog a Lot”: Auston Matthews Discloses What He Misses the Most When Leafs Go on Long Road Trips
Auston Matthews, one of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ most dynamic players, recently opened up about something that fans don’t often hear from professional athletes—the personal challenges that come with being away from home for extended periods of time. In a candid moment, Matthews shared that while the usual comforts of home and family are always on his mind during long road trips, there is one thing he misses above all else: his dog.
“I miss my dog a lot,” Matthews said, a sentiment that resonated deeply with pet owners and animal lovers alike. The NHL season is a grueling one, often requiring players to leave their homes for weeks at a time, traveling from city to city. For Matthews, a known dog lover, the absence of his canine companion has become one of the toughest aspects of these extended trips.
Matthews, who is often regarded for his focus and professionalism on the ice, took a moment to express the emotional side of being a professional athlete. While the 26-year-old has made his name through his elite goal-scoring ability and leadership for the Leafs, he’s also become known for his down-to-earth personality and relatability off the ice. In interviews, Matthews often comes across as a player who values his time away from the rink, whether that’s enjoying time with friends or indulging in his love of video games. But it’s clear that when the Leafs are on the road for multiple games, Matthews finds himself missing his dog more than anything else.
His dog, a French Bulldog named “Ace,” is often seen in photos and social media posts, providing fans with a glimpse into Matthews’ personal life. Ace has become a significant part of Matthews’ routine, and the two share a bond that goes beyond the typical relationship between a player and their pet. Matthews has been open about how important Ace is to his mental well-being, especially during stressful times in the season.
Dogs, in general, are known to provide their owners with a sense of comfort and companionship, and Matthews’ affection for Ace underscores just how much pets can mean to their owners. Whether it’s going for walks, having a playful moment at home, or simply relaxing together, the presence of a dog can provide an emotional anchor, something players like Matthews might not always have on the road.
The topic of missing family and pets while on long road trips is not unique to Matthews. Many athletes speak about the emotional toll that time away from home can take, and for someone like Matthews, who has established such a strong bond with his dog, the absence can feel particularly challenging. As the Leafs travel across North America, Matthews’ longing for his pet serves as a reminder of the human side of the sport, where players have personal connections and emotions that extend beyond the ice.
While Matthews’ fans are undoubtedly thrilled to see him put his all into every game, it’s refreshing to know that he’s also a devoted pet owner who values the simple comforts of home. Despite being one of the NHL’s brightest stars, it’s clear that Matthews, like many of us, finds peace in the company of his dog, and when the Leafs head out on another road trip, Ace will undoubtedly be on his mind.
In the end, it’s these personal moments and vulnerabilities that make Matthews all the more relatable and admired by fans, reminding everyone that even the most elite athletes have a soft side.
