Aryna Sabalenka’s Statement on Konstantin Koltsov’s Tragic Passing at Miami Open 2024

“Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and even though we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” the woman wrote in a post on her Instagram account. During this difficult period, please respect the privacy of his family and me.”

The couple started dating in 2021 and had not disclosed their breakup to the public. Sabalenka practiced while donning all black, and she has decided not to withdraw from the Miami Open. She received a first round bye and is scheduled to face Paula Badosa on Friday in the second round of the tournament, according to reports that she has chosen not to speak to the media throughout the competition.

Koltsov, a former NHL ice hockey player, reportedly took his own life. A news source reported that on Monday, the local police reacted to a call regarding allegations of a man leaping from a Miami resort’s balcony.

According to Reuters, the Miami Dade police department said, “At approximately 12:39 a.m., Bal Harbour Police and Fire Rescue were dispatched to the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, 9703 Collins Avenue, in reference to a male that jumped from a balcony.” The report also stated that the Miami-Dade Police Department’s Homicide Bureau has taken up the investigation of the case and that no foul play is suspected.

Forward Koltsov participated in two Olympics for the Belarus national team in 2002 and 2010 and played for three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League between 2002 and 2006.

Koltsov was Salavat Yulaev’s assistant coach in the Russian league. The club released a statement saying, “We regret to notify you of the passing of Salavat Yulaev’s coach, Konstantin Koltsov.”

“Players, teammates, and spectators all adored and appreciated him for being a strong, happy person. It continued, “Konstantin Evgenievich indelibly etched himself into our club’s history.”

Sabalenka has been working out at Hard Rock Stadium in anticipation of her debut against world No. 80 Paula Badosa.

Badosa defeated Simona Halep 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 to advance to the second round. Badosa has referred to Sabalenka as “one of my best friends” and her “tour soulmate.” During her post-match press conference, the Spaniard refused to answer questions from the media regarding the incident while expressing her support for Sabalenka.

“I talked to her a lot yesterday,” The same this morning. I understand her situation, therefore. Badosa stated on Tuesday, “I am aware of the full scenario and what is going on. Since she is ultimately my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer, it is also a little strange for me to go through that. It’s a really difficult scenario.

It’s uneasy to play against her at the same moment. I’m not going to talk about it, though, so I’m not really in the mood to talk about it. She is my closest friend, as I have stated.