Aryna Sabalenka with Boy friend,Konstantin Koltsov
Aryna Sabalenka, currently ranked second in the world in tennis, has experienced the loss of her boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, a former NHL player, who passed away at the age of 42.
The news of Koltsov’s passing was shared via the social messaging site Telegram through an announcement from his former club, Salavat Yulaev Ufa, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
The statement described Koltsov as a resilient and beloved figure, highlighting his significant contributions to the club both as a player and as part of the coaching staff, which included winning the Russian Championship and the Gagarin Cup.
Sabalenka, who is currently in Miami preparing for the upcoming Miami Open, was reportedly joined by Koltsov in Florida before his sudden demise.
This loss comes five years after Sabalenka tragically lost her father, Sergey, at the age of 43. Similar to Koltsov, Sabalenka’s father was also a professional ice hockey player.
She has frequently spoken about how her father’s passing has motivated her in her tennis career.
Koltsov, who represented Belarus in the 2002 and 2010 Winter Olympics and played for the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins from 2002 to 2006, leaves behind a legacy that transcends borders and sports.