World No. 2 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka, a two-time Australian Open champion, is set to participate in the Miami Open this week despite the recent passing of her longtime boyfriend, former NHL player Konstantin Koltsov, in Miami.
Sabalenka's decision to continue competing was confirmed by a WTA spokesperson, who stated that she remains entered in the tournament. The tennis star was seen training in Miami as she prepares for her upcoming matches, with reports indicating that she will not engage with the media during the event.
Koltsov, a Belarusian professional ice hockey player who represented his country at the Winter Olympics and played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, tragically died from an apparent suicide, as reported by the Miami-Dade Police Department.
The couple had been in a relationship since June 2021, according to sources. Sabalenka has not issued a public statement following the news of Koltsov's passing.
For those in the US who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide or know someone who is, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers support and guidance. You can reach out to them at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to speak with a trained counselor.
