World No. 2 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, is grieving the loss of her partner, former professional ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov, at the age of 42.
Koltsov, who represented the Belarus national team and played for the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL, tragically passed away in the United States. The cause of his untimely death has not yet been disclosed.
The news of Koltsov’s passing was confirmed by Russian hockey club Salavat Yulaev, where Koltsov served as an assistant coach. In a heartfelt statement, the club described him as a beloved figure who had made a significant impact at the organization.
Sabalenka and Koltsov had been in a relationship since 2021, and he was a familiar presence as part of her support team during WTA tournaments around the globe. Their bond was often shared with followers through Sabalenka’s engaging Instagram posts.
For Sabalenka, this is another profound loss to bear, having previously mourned the passing of her father in 2019. Despite the hardships, Sabalenka recently triumphed in her quest for back-to-back Australian Open titles earlier this year, dedicating her success to her late father in a touching tribute.
Koltsov’s legacy extended beyond the hockey rink, having competed in 144 games for the Pittsburgh Penguins during his tenure from 2002 to 2006. He also proudly represented Belarus in the Winter Olympics of 2002 and 2010.
Sabalenka, who recently exited the Indian Wells tournament in the round of 16 after a loss to Emma Navarro, is now gearing up for her upcoming appearance at the Miami Open this weekend.
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