Tennis Star's Boyfriend Found Dead in Apparent Suicide
Konstantin Koltsov, the 42-year-old former Olympic hockey player and boyfriend of world #2 tennis star Aryna Sabalenka, has died by an apparent suicide, according to police reports. The tragic incident occurred early Monday morning at the upscale St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort in Miami, where Koltsov jumped from a balcony.
The Miami-Dade Police Department stated that “no foul play is suspected” in Koltsov’s death, which is now under investigation by the homicide bureau as is standard protocol for apparent suicides. Police and fire rescue personnel responded to an emergency call around 12:39am Monday morning regarding “a man jumping off a balcony” at the luxury resort.
Koltsov, a Belarusian native, had a successful hockey career spanning the NHL, Russian leagues, and Olympic competitions. He was drafted in the 1st round by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1999 and played 144 games for them from 2002-2006, recording 12 goals and 26 assists. More recently, he had transitioned into coaching as an assistant for the Belarusian national team and Russian club Salavat Yulaev Ufa.
“Konstantin was one of the undisputable leaders of our team, a talented progressive coach, a bright player,” said Belarusian national team head coach Dmitry Baskov. “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.”
The tragedy is compounded by Koltsov’s romantic relationship with Aryna Sabalenka, who captured her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open earlier this year. Sabalenka, currently in Miami to compete at the Miami Open, was said to be practicing on Tuesday while wearing black in an apparent acknowledgement of her tragic loss.
The 25-year-old Belarusian star has not withdrawn from the tournament as of Tuesday afternoon. She has a first-round bye and is scheduled to play her opening match on Friday, with no press conferences scheduled after her matches out of respect for her mourning.
Mental health experts emphasize the importance of supporting loved ones through the trauma of a suicide loss. “Suicide survivors often experience a complicated form of grief that can involve feelings of guilt, rejection, anger and emotional numbness on top of the pure sadness of the loss,” said Dr. Jack Cahalane, director of the University of Miami’s counseling center. “Having a strong support system is critical for navigating this difficult process.”
The tennis world has rallied around Sabalenka during this immensely difficult time. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic situation involving someone so close to Aryna,” said WTA Chairman Steve Simon. “Her well-being is our top priority, and we will provide all possible resources to help her through this unimaginable loss.”
As the investigation into Koltsov’s death continues, those closest to him are left grappling with immeasurable grief. His former Russian club Salavat Yulaev paid tribute, stating “He was a strong and cheerful person, he was loved and respected by players, colleagues, and fans. [Koltsov] forever wrote himself into the history of our club.”
The ATP Tour also issued condolences: “Our hearts go out to Aryna Sabalenka and all those impacted by this devastating loss. Konstantin Koltsov had a lasting impact on hockey and those around him, and his passing leaves a profound void.”
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org to chat with someone and get free, private support.