Police in Miami have confirmed the boyfriend of Arnya Sabalenka has died by ‘apparent suicide’, aged 42.
Konstantin Koltsov, a former ice hockey player, was with Sabalenka, the current women’s world No.2 tennis player, in Florida ahead of the Miami Open.
Kolstov, who represented his country at the Winter Olympics, had been working as assistant coach at Russian club Salavat Yulaev before his death was announced on Tuesday morning.
‘It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that the coach of Salavat Yulaev, Konstantin Koltsov, has passed away,’ a read a statement from the club based based in the Russian city of Ufa.
‘He was a strong and cheerful person, he was loved and respected by players, colleagues, and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich forever wrote himself into the history of our club. May he rest in peace.’
The Miami-Dade Police Department has since confirmed that officers attended the St Regis Bal Harbour Resort in the early hours of Monday morning.
‘The Miami-Dade Police Department, Homicide Bureau, responded and has taken over the investigation of the apparent suicide of Mr Konstantin Koltsov,’ a statement read. ‘No foul play is suspected.’
Sabalenka was not due to begin her Miami Open campaign until Friday and is understood to have asked for as late a start was possible for her first match of the tournament, should she decide to compete.
The 25-year-old benefited from a first round bye and was seen on the practice courts on Tuesday.
Caroline Wozniacki, who beat Clara Burel 6-1, 6-4 in her first-round match, was full of sympathy for Sabalenka.
‘I can’t even imagine what she’s going through right now,’ Wozniacki said. ‘I’m also tearing up. It’s such a terrible situation. It’s so hard.
‘I love Aryna. I think she’s such a great person. She’s always so happy and out there. To see her go through that, it’s heartbreaking.
‘I can’t even imagine what she’s going through right now. Everyone grieves in a different way.
‘She was walking past today. I was giving her her space. I let her know that if she ever needs anything, I’m here for her.’
MORE : Emma Raducanu forces Aryna Sabalenka into potty-mouthed rant after ‘unbelievable’ Indian Wells performance
MORE : Underwhelming Chelsea may have to settle for a draw with poor travellers Newcastle at Stamford Bridge
MORE : Emma Raducanu learns Indian Wells fate with blockbuster clash lined up
Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com
