Spanish tennis pro Paula Badosa said she has been in constant contact with her best friend, Aryna Sabalenka, after Sabalenka’s boyfriend, former NHL player Konstantin Koltsov, passed away at the age of 42.
Miami-Dade police said Koltsov’s death appeared to be a suicide, and first responders were called to the St. Regis Bal Harbor Resort in Miami Beach to search for a man who jumped from a balcony on Monday, and no criminal activity was suspected. It was announced that there was no.
“I mean, I don’t want to talk about it.” Badosa said Tuesday.He added that he speaks frequently with Sabalenka, who he will play in the second round of the Miami Open on Friday.
“But of course. Like I said before, she’s one of my best friends.
“Yesterday, I talked to her a lot. Same thing this morning. So I know what she’s going through. I know the whole situation, what’s going on. It’s a bit of a shock for me to go through that too, because at the end of the day, she’s my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s such a tough situation.
“At the same time, it’s uncomfortable to play against her. Yeah, but I don’t really want to talk about it because I said I wouldn’t talk about it. She’s my best friend and I made that promise. I’m going to keep it that way. I’m sorry.”
World No. 2 Sabalenka, who received a first-round bye at the Miami Open, will participate in the tournament but will not participate in the press conference. According to Tennis Channel.
Sabalenka, 25, was practicing on court on Tuesday, as seen in video footage leaked on social media.
Badosa advanced to the second round by defeating former world No. 1 Simona Halep, who is returning from a doping ban.
Koltsov’s death was confirmed by Russian club Salavat Yulaev, where he was an assistant coach.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Konstantin Koltsov, the coach of Salavat Yulaev,” Salavat Yulaev said in a statement. According to Reuters.
“He was a strong and cheerful person, loved and respected by players, colleagues and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich forever etched his name in the history of our club. May he rest in peace. I hope you can sleep in.”
Arina Sabalenka/Instagram
Koltsov played three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins, appearing in 144 games from 2002 to 2006.
The team too issued a statement We would like to express our deepest condolences to the former forward’s family and friends.
According to People magazine, Sabalenka and Koltsov’s relationship was first reported in June 2021.
The two-time Australian Open champion also posted photos of the couple on social media last year.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 or visit the following link: SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
