Aryna Sabalenka to play at Miami Open after partner Konstantin Koltsov's 'apparent suicide'

Aryna Sabalenka has confirmed she will play in the Miami Open on Friday following the sudden death of her boyfriend.

Former ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov died at the age of 43 in Miami with what police described as an “apparent suicide”.

Amid the tragedy, the world No2 has committed to playing in Miami but will not be doing any press interviews before or after her matches.

In a statement, the Miami-Dade Police Department said: “According to investigators, on Monday 18 March at approximately 12.39am, Bal Harbour Police and Fire Rescue were dispatched to the St Regis Bal Harbour Resort.

“The Miami-Dad Police Department, homicide bureau, responded and has taken over the investigation of the apparent suicide of Mr Konstantin Koltsov. No foul play is suspected.”

Sabalenka had been linked with Koltsov, who played in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins from 2002 and 2006 and was part of the Belarus national team, since June 2021.

The news was announced on Tuesday by Russian ice hockey side Salavat Yulaev where he had worked as an assistant coach.

In a statement, it said: “It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that the coach of Salavat Yulaev, Konstantin Koltsov, has passed away.

“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. May he rest in peace.”