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Sabalenka's Grief: Tennis Star Recalls Ex's Death
18 May
Summary
- Sabalenka learned of ex-boyfriend's death by apparent suicide from police.
- She played in Miami Open days later, viewing competition as grieving.
- An injury later forced her to withdraw from Wimbledon, prompting reflection.
Tennis champion Aryna Sabalenka shared her account of learning about the death of her ex-boyfriend, former hockey player Konstantin Koltsov, in March 2024. Sabalenka was in Miami for practice when police informed her of Koltsov's apparent suicide. She described her initial shock and disbelief upon receiving the news.
Koltsov, 42, had been in Miami to support Sabalenka. Despite the personal tragedy and her stated heartbreak, Sabalenka returned to the tennis court just three days later to compete in the Miami Open. She explained that playing was her chosen method of coping and grieving.
Sabalenka drew parallels to a previous loss in 2019 when her father passed away, noting how tennis had previously helped her navigate grief. However, she acknowledged that pushing through Koltsov's death without pause significantly impacted her mental and physical health.
Ultimately, a shoulder injury forced her withdrawal from the 2024 Wimbledon Championships. This physical setback provided Sabalenka with a much-needed opportunity to rest, undergo rehabilitation, and step away from the demanding professional tour, allowing her to appreciate life beyond competition.
