Belarusian tennis sensation Aryna Sabalenka shared a heartfelt message on social media in light of the recent passing of her former partner, Konstantin Koltsov.
Koltsov, a former NHL player, tragically passed away in Miami earlier this week in what authorities have determined to be an apparent suicide. He was 42 years old.
Aside from his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Koltsov also represented Belarus in the Olympics and had been working as a coach post-retirement. Sabalenka expressed her deep sorrow over the loss and requested privacy for herself and Koltsov’s family during this difficult time.
“Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” Sabalenka wrote in an Instagram Story. “Please respect my privacy and his family’s privacy during this difficult time.”
Sabalenka, currently ranked world No. 2, is continuing to compete in the Miami Open but has opted not to engage with the media. She is scheduled to face off against Spain’s Paula Badosa in the upcoming match.
Amidst the tournament, Sabalenka’s fellow players have shown their support and understanding. Badosa, who is set to play against Sabalenka, expressed her sympathy and admiration for her friend’s strength during this challenging period.
“She’s one of my best friends,” Badosa said Tuesday when asked about Sabalenka. “That for me is a little bit shocking also to go through that because, at the end, she’s my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s a very tough situation. At the same point, playing against her, it’s also uncomfortable.”
As the tennis community mourns the loss alongside Sabalenka, former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki also extended her condolences and support to the grieving player.
“I can’t even imagine what she’s going through. I’m also tearing up. It’s such a terrible situation. It’s so hard,” the Danish player said. “I reached out to her and I told her that I was here if she needed anything.”