Aryna Sabalenka Mourns Ex Konstantin Koltsov's Passing: Expresses Heartache

Aryna Sabalenka Breaks Silence on Ex Konstantin Koltsov Death

Courtesy of Aryna Sabalenka/Instagram

Tennis player Aryna Sabalenka expressed her sadness over the passing of her ex-boyfriend and former NHL player Konstantin Koltsov.

Sabalenka, who is 25 years old, took to her Instagram Story on Wednesday, March 20 to share her feelings in both English and her native Belarusian. She wrote, “Konstantin’s death is a devastating loss, and even though we had parted ways, my heart aches. I kindly ask for privacy for myself and his family as we navigate through this tough time.”

The two had been together since 2021, but it is not clear when they broke up. Koltsov passed away on Monday, March 18, in Miami from an apparent suicide. He was 42 years old.

"According to investigators, on Monday, March 18, 2024, around 12:39 a.m., Bal Harbour Police and Fire Rescue responded to a report of a man jumping from a balcony at the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, located at 9703 Collins Avenue," stated Miami-Dade P.D. They mentioned that there is no suspicion of foul play.

Koltsov had a three-season stint in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also represented his country for 18 seasons, participating in two Olympics for the Belarusian National Team.

The Pittsburgh Penguins expressed their heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of former player Konstantin Koltsov. The team shared their condolences on Tuesday, March 19, mentioning that Koltsov, a Belarus native, was drafted by the Penguins in the first round in 1999. He played for the team from 2003 to 2006, appearing in 144 NHL games. Notably, Koltsov was a teammate of both Sidney Crosby and Mario Lemieux during the 2005-06 season.

Aryna Sabalenka Breaks Silence on Ex Konstantin Koltsov Death

Courtesy of Aryna Sabalenka/Instagram

Koltsov was reportedly cheering for Sabalenka, the second-ranked women's tennis player in the world, during the Miami Open. She is set to play against Paula Badosa on Friday, March 22, and has been seen practicing this week to get ready.

Following Koltsov's passing, Sabalenka's fellow players have been expressing their solidarity with her, including her opponent for the upcoming match.

Badosa shared with reporters on Tuesday that Sabalenka is one of her closest friends. She mentioned that they had long conversations yesterday and this morning, and she is aware of the challenges Sabalenka is facing. Badosa emphasized that it is difficult for her to see her friend going through a tough situation and she does not want her to suffer. Despite their friendship, Badosa admitted that playing against Sabalenka can also be uncomfortable.

Former No. 1 tennis pro Caroline Wozniacki expressed her sympathy for the person going through a difficult time. She mentioned that she couldn't imagine the pain they must be feeling and even felt emotional herself. Wozniacki acknowledged the severity of the situation, describing it as terrible and extremely challenging. She reached out to offer her support, letting the person know that she was there for them if they needed anything.

Editor's P/S:

The sudden passing of Konstantin Koltsov, Aryna Sabalenka's ex-boyfriend, has sent shockwaves through the tennis and hockey communities. Sabalenka's heartfelt expression of grief and the outpouring of support from her fellow players highlight the devastating impact of suicide. It is a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support, especially among athletes facing intense pressure and personal challenges.

Koltsov's impressive hockey career and Sabalenka's status as a top-ranked tennis player underscore the fact that even individuals with seemingly successful lives can struggle with mental health issues. Their story serves as a call to action for increased understanding, compassion, and resources to support those in need. By fostering open conversations and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, we can create a society where individuals like Koltsov and Sabalenka feel comfortable seeking help before it's too late.