Report: Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend has died in Miami

Various media outlets, including Eurosport and ESPN, are reporting that Aryna Sabalenka's boyfriend, former professional hockey player, Konstantin Koltsov, 42, has died in Miami. It is unclear what might have happened, and limited information is available.

Sabalenka, 25, and Koltsov have reportedly been together for three years. Koltsov had a long and successful hockey career in Russia, Belarus, and with the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins.

Aryna Sabalenka was slated to play in the Miami Open so Koltsov was apparently traveling with her. There has been no information from her team or the WTA confirming or denying these reports. Sabalenka, seeded second, had a first-round bye in the tournament and was scheduled to play her first match on Friday, March 22.

Sabalenka's personal struggles

This is heartbreaking news because it is eerily similar to how she lost her father. Sabalenka opened up about the shock and trauma of losing dad, Sergey, suddenly in 2019. Sergey was 43 years old and a former ice hockey player. He was a guiding force and motivator for her to win both of her Australian Opens. Otherwise, she is guarded about her private life.

Fellow WTA player Sloane Stephens posted a cryptic message most likely directed at Sabalenka. She wrote: "That moment when you can actually feel the pain in your chest from hearing something or seeing something that breaks your heart." One of Sabalenka's closest friends on the WTA Tour, Paula Badosa, posted a message earlier in the day that said, "Showing vulnerability is a sign of courage and braveness." It is not clear if that has anything to do with this tragedy.

Sabalenka brings so much light and joy to the WTA Tour. We send our prayers and well wishes to her and Koltsov's loved ones. At this point, tennis becomes secondary for Sabalenka as it should.

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