Tennis community unites to support Aryna Sabalenka after tragic loss of her boyfriend
In a show of solidarity, tennis stars join together to offer their support to Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian world No. 2, in the wake of her partner, former professional ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov's passing. The tennis community stands by her during this difficult time.
The tennis community is coming together to support Aryna Sabalenka, the Belarusian world No. 2, after the passing of her partner, former professional ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov.
Konstantin Koltsov, who previously played 144 games for the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins, tragically passed away. The Miami-Dade Police Department has described his death as an "apparent suicide," with no foul play suspected.
Just days before Sabalenka is set to play at the Miami Open, the 42-year-old Koltsov from Belarus passed away. Sabalenka, who is seeded, will not play in the first round of the tournament. Instead, she will face her close friend Paula Badosa from Spain in the second round.
Badosa shared with reporters on Tuesday that the player she defeated, Simona Halep, is one of her closest friends. She mentioned that they had lengthy conversations yesterday and again this morning. Badosa expressed understanding of what her friend is going through and the challenges she is facing.
The situation is tough for Badosa as well, as she finds it unsettling to compete against her best friend. She emphasized that she does not want to see her friend suffer and feels uncomfortable facing her on the court.
Badosa plays a backhand against Halep in their Miami Open first-round match.
Badosa plays a backhand against Halep in their Miami Open first-round match.
Brennan Asplen/Getty Images
Koltsov, who played three seasons in the NHL and represented Belarus at two Winter Olympics, had been working as a coach with Russian ice hockey team Salavat Yulaev.
He often accompanied two-time Australian Open champion Sabalenka to tennis tournaments worldwide. As reported by People, rumors of their relationship had been circulating since June 2021.
After her win against Clara Burel at the Miami Open, reporters approached former world No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki to ask about Koltsov's passing.
Wozniacki expressed her sympathy for Aryna, acknowledging the difficult situation she is facing. She shared that she reached out to Aryna to offer her support and let her know that she is there for her if needed.
The tennis player highlighted Aryna's positive qualities, describing her as a great person who is always cheerful and outgoing. Wozniacki found it heartbreaking to see Aryna in distress, emphasizing that everyone copes with grief differently.
Today, I saw her walking by. I respected her privacy and gave her space. I made sure she knows that I am here for her and willing to help with anything she needs.
CNN reached out to Sabalenka's representatives to get more information about her Miami Open schedule.
If you or someone you care about is in the US and is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a trained counselor. If you are outside the US, the International Association for Suicide Prevention offers a worldwide directory of resources and international hotlines. You can also reach out to Befrienders Worldwide for support.
Editor's P/S:
The tennis community is rallying around Aryna Sabalenka during this trying time. The sudden and tragic loss of her partner has sent shockwaves through the sport, and her fellow players are offering their support in any way they can. Paula Badosa, who is scheduled to face Sabalenka in the second round of the Miami Open, expressed her understanding of the difficult situation her friend is facing and her discomfort with competing against her. Caroline Wozniacki, a former world No. 1, also reached out to Sabalenka to offer her condolences and support.
It is heartbreaking to see such a talented and promising athlete going through such a difficult time. Suicide is a serious issue that affects countless people around the world, and it is important to remember that there is help available. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You are not alone.
