Belarusian media is reporting that “a detached blood clot” is the cause of the death of Aryna Sabalenka’s boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov.
While with Sabalenka in Miami for the upcoming WTA 1000 tournament, Koltsov – a former Belarusian hockey star – suddenly died at just the age of 42.
Initially, Koltsov’s death was reported by some Belarusian hockey sites but there wasn’t an official confirmation until Salavat Yulaev Ufa – a Russian hockey team where Koltsov worked as an assistant coach and once played during his career – confirmed the news through social media.
“It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that Salavat Yulaev coach Konstantin Koltsov has passed away,” Salavat Yulaev Ufa said in a statement.
The news of the Koltsov death left many stunned and shocked as the 42-year-old was regularly accompanying Sabalenka in tournaments and there were no signs that he was battling any illnesses or having any health concerns.
Aryna Sabalenka and Konstantin Koltsov© Aryna Sabalenka – Instagram
After the news of the Koltsov death was officially confirmed, Belarus’ Telegraf-News provided more details, revealing that “a detached blood clot” was believed to be the cause.
Koltsov was a well-known athlete in Belarus before he started dating Sabalenka
During his hockey career that lasted 18 seasons, Koltsov played for several top Russian and Belarusian hockey teams and also had a stint in the NHL, where he played for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Also, Koltsov represented Belarus at the 2002 and 2010 Winter Olympics.
“The Belarusian Hockey Federation expresses its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and everyone who knew and worked with Konstantin Evgenievich,” the federation said in a statement.
When it comes to his private life, Koltsov was married and had three kids from his first marriage. After going separate ways with his ex-wife Yulia in 2020, Koltsov started dating Sabalenka in 2021.
In the last three years, 25-year-old Sabalenka was regularly posting about her moments and experiences with Koltsov and she enjoyed his company around the Tour.
Aryna Sabalenka and Konstantin Koltsov© Aryna Sabalenka – Instagram
Following the tragic news, many expect Sabalenka to withdraw from Miami.
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