20 March 2024 , 22:56
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Tennis star Aryna Sabalenka has spoken out after ex-boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov died in Miami in the early hours of Monday morning.
Miami-Dade Police Department has ruled the Belarussian's death an "apparent suicide", saying the former Pittsburgh Penguins ice hockey star "jumped from a balcony" of a five-star hotel. Koltsov, 42, was the head coach of Russian team Salavat Yulaev at the time of his death, leaving behind three children he shares with ex-wife Julija Mikhailova.
Sabalenka, 25, is in Miami ahead of the WTA Miami Open, and she still intends to compete in the tournament despite Koltsov's death. In her first statement since the news emerged, Sabalenka confirmed she and Koltsov had separated before his passing, adding that she was "heartbroken".
"Konstantin's death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken. Please respect my privacy and his family's privacy during this difficult time," she posted on Instagram.
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Two-time Australian Open champion Sabalenka, the number-two player in the WTA rankings, will face close friend Paula Badosa in the round of 64 in Miami on Friday. However, the Belarussian will not be taking part in media duties throughout the tournament.
Miami-Dade police detective Argemis Colome said there are no suspicions of foul play over Koltsov's death.
"According to investigators March 18 at approximately 12.39am, Bal Harbour Police and Fire Rescue were dispatched to the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, 9703 Collins Avenue, in reference to a male that jumped from a balcony," Colome said in a statement.
Police suspect no foul play after Koltsov jumped from a balcony in Miami (AFP via Getty Images)"The Miami-Dade Police Department, Homicide Bureau, responded and has taken over the investigation of the apparent suicide of Mr. Konstantin Koltsov. No foul play is suspected."
The Penguins paid tribute to Koltsov in a statement. It read: "The Penguins extend their deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Penguins forward, Konstantin Koltsov. The native of Belarus was the Penguins' first-round draft choice in 1999 and was with the team from 2003-2006, playing 144 NHL games."
A statement from Kontinental Hockey League club Salavat Yulaev added: "He was a strong and cheerful person, he was loved and respected by players, colleagues, and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich forever wrote himself into the history of our club.
"Koltsov won the Russian Championship and the Gagarin Cup as part of Salavat Yulaev and did a great job on the team’s coaching staff. May his memory burn bright."
For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org , visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.