March 20, (THEWILL)- Tennis superstar, Aryna Sabalenka, is reeling from the tragic loss of her boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov.
The former NHL player died by apparent suicide on Monday, according to Miami-Dade police. Despite the devastating news, organisers say the world number two plans to compete at this week’s Miami Open.
Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion from Belarus, arrived at the tournament venue on Tuesday afternoon to practise. The 25-year-old is scheduled to face Spain’s Paola Badosa in the second round at the premier event in Florida. The couple had been dating since Koltsov’s divorce in 2020.
The investigation by Miami police concluded there was no foul play involved in the death of the 42-year-old Koltsov at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort early Monday morning. The Belarusian Hockey Federation paid tribute to the two-time Olympian who represented his country at nine world championships during his career.
Koltsov’s former NHL team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, also released a statement expressing condolences. “The Penguins extend their deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Penguins forward, Konstantin Koltsov,” it read.
Fellow players were quick to offer support to the grieving Sabalenka during this difficult time. American Jessica Pegula summed up the feelings in the locker room: “We’re all competitors…but at the same time, we’re still somewhat of a family. All you can do is really offer support for however she wants to deal with it.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
