Arina Sabalenka says she is “heartbroken” and has asked for privacy following the tragic death of her ex-partner Konstantin Koltsov, who died in Miami on Monday.
“Konstantin’s death was an unthinkable tragedy and my heart is broken even though we are no longer together. Please respect my privacy and the privacy of his family at this difficult time. Please,” Sabalenka posted on social media on Wednesday.
Sabalenka will compete in the Miami Open and will face her good friend Paula Badosa in the second round on Thursday. Badosa said it would be “uncomfortable” to face Sabalenka after Koltsov’s death. Sabalenka returned to training a day after the 42-year-old former ice hockey player died in Miami in what police said was an “apparent suicide.”
Badosa, who defeated Simona Halep in the first round after the Romanian returned from her doping ban, said of Sabalenka: [for] A lot of time. The same thing happened this morning. So I know what she’s going through. I know the whole situation. It’s a little shocking for me to go through that with her because she is my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s a very difficult situation.
“At the same time, it’s uncomfortable to play against her. 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. She’s a strong woman. I think I’ll get power from somewhere. I’ll fight and I hope it’s a good match.”
Caroline Wozniacki became emotional about the situation, saying: I’m also in tears. It’s a very bad situation. Is difficult. I contacted her and told her she was here if I needed anything.
“I love Alina. She’s such a wonderful person. She’s always so happy and out there. It’s heartbreaking to see her go through that. Everyone I grieve in a different way. Today she was passing by. I was giving her space. I told her, if you need anything, I’m here, we’re here for her. I told them I’m here for you.”
Koltsov, who played in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins, was a regular presence supporting Sabalenka at tournaments. The news was announced by Salavat Yulaev Ufa, the Russian ice hockey team where Koltsov was an assistant coach. Sabalenka’s father, Sergei, also a former ice hockey player, passed away in 2019 at the age of 43.
