Disappearing balls

I am starting to wonder if the raccoon plays tennis. I always leave tennis balls on the deck for the dogs to play with. I have noticed that over the past few days the balls are disappearing.

At first I thought the dogs were bringing the balls into the house with them. However, I have not found extra balls in the basement or upstairs. I thought perhaps the balls had fallen off the deck, but they are not in the yard.

I can't imagine anyone wanting a chewed tennis ball, but then again you never know.