Belarusian tennis sensation Aryna Sabalenka is facing a challenging period following reports of the passing of her boyfriend, former ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov. The news has sent shockwaves through the tennis and hockey communities, leaving fans and supporters deeply concerned for Sabalenka during this difficult time.
Sabalenka and Koltsov’s relationship had been public knowledge since June 2021, with both athletes openly expressing their affection for each other on social media platforms. Koltsov, a former ice hockey player known for his tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins, was not just a romantic partner but also a source of inspiration and support for Sabalenka, particularly during her triumphant moments on the tennis court.
However, the recent reports of Koltsov’s passing have cast a shadow of grief over Sabalenka’s supporters, who are now rallying around the tennis star as she navigates this heartbreaking loss. Tennis sources initially relayed the news, citing unconfirmed reports of Koltsov’s death at the age of 42. These reports indicated that Koltsov was in Miami, United States, at the time of his passing.
According to unconfirmed information, former #LetsGoPens📷 player Konstantin Koltsov passed away at the age of 42.
Koltsov was in the United States (Miami)
Koltsov is the boyfriend of the star tennis player Aryna Sabalenka. pic.twitter.com/UhusFBxQho
— Belarushockey.com (@Belarushockey) March 18, 2024
A retweet by a reliable tennis fan further amplified the news, drawing attention to Koltsov’s stature as Sabalenka’s partner and expressing hope that the reports were somehow untrue. The retweeted post, shared by a Belarusian hockey news source, included Koltsov’s photo and highlighted his significant role in Sabalenka’s life.
Belarusian hockey news pages are reporting the passing of former hockey player Konstantin Koltsov (unconfirmed yet), who is also Sabalenka’s boyfriend.
I just hope it’s somehow untrue… https://t.co/isnfWqxiaT
— Melanie Lautrup (@melanie_lautrup) March 18, 2024
Concerned fans took to social media to express their worries about Sabalenka’s well-being in the wake of this tragic news. Observers noted Sabalenka’s removal of photos featuring Koltsov from her official Instagram profile, further fueling speculation and concern among supporters.
However, amidst the uncertainty and speculation, fans are also grappling with the possibility that the news of Koltsov’s passing may not be accurate, as neither Sabalenka nor Koltsov’s family has issued an official statement confirming the reports. Despite the lack of confirmation, the impact of Koltsov’s alleged passing reverberates deeply within both the tennis and hockey communities.
😭 Such horrible news:
According to reports, Aryna Sabalenka’s boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov, former hockey player, has died at age 42, while in Miami 😔
Devastating.
Source: https://t.co/PQXZ64PavG (As well as various Belarusian Hockey Sites) pic.twitter.com/bQ7d4hcobi
— Olly 🎾🇬🇧 (@Olly_Tennis_) March 18, 2024
Konstantin Koltsov’s legacy extends beyond his relationship with Sabalenka; he was a highly respected ice hockey player who represented Belarus on the international stage, including appearances at the Olympics. His contributions to the sport and his presence in Sabalenka’s life have left an indelible mark on those who knew him, further underscoring the magnitude of the loss being mourned.
As Sabalenka grapples with the possibility of Koltsov’s passing, fans and supporters stand in solidarity, offering their thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support during this incredibly challenging time. The tennis world waits with bated breath for any official updates or statements regarding Koltsov’s passing, while also remembering him fondly for his achievements both on and off the ice.