Konstantin Koltsov: Shock twist as tennis star Aryna Sabalenka reveals couple had split before tragic death
Tennis star Aryna Sabalenka has spoken out about the tragic death of Konstantin Koltsov, revealing the couple had broken up before he took his own life.
Koltsov, a former ice hockey player who competed in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, was found dead in the US this week, with the Miami-Dade Police Department revealing his death was an “apparent suicide”.
Sabalenka, the world No. 2 female tennis player, released a statement on Instagram on Thursday revealing the couple had split.
Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” she wrote.
“Please respect my privacy and his family’s privacy during this difficult time.”
Miami-Dade Police Department spokesman Argemis Colome confirmed that although the Homicide Bureau initially responded to the incident, officers determined that there was no foul play.
“According to investigators on Monday, March 18, 2024, at approximately 12.39am, Bal Harbour Police and Fire Rescue were dispatched to the St Regis Bal Harbour Resort, 9703 Collins Ave,” he said.
“The Miami-Dade Police Department, Homicide Bureau, responded and has taken over the investigation of the apparent suicide of Mr Konstantin Koltsov. No foul play is suspected.”
The couple had been together for about three years.
Belarus national hockey team coach Dmitry Baskov paid tribute to Koltsov, calling his death an “irreparable loss”.
Koltsov represented Belarus at the 2002 and 2010 Winter Olympics and also worked as the coach of the team.
“Konstantin was one of the undisputable leaders of our team, a talented progressive coach, a bright player,” Baskov said in a statement.
“He was an example of sturdiness, hard work, dedication and an idol for many Belarusian boys and his colleagues. It’s hard and unfair when such people leave so early.”
Koltsov had been working as an assistant coach for Russian ice hockey team Salavat Yulaev Ufa.
It is believed he was in Florida to support Sabalenka as she plays in the Miami Open.
