Police investigating the death of the boyfriend of tennis star Aryna Sabalenka have described it as an “apparent suicide” and that they have found no evidence of “foul play”.
Konstantin Koltsov, a Belarusian former professional hockey player, was found dead at a hotel in Miami, Florida, at the age of 42 on Monday.
Sabalenka – currently ranked world number two by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) – is in the city and is scheduled to play her first match in the Miami Open on Friday.
She reportedly intends to still play in the tournament.
In a statement, 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-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 news of Mr Koltsov’s death was announced by Salavat Yulaev, the Russian hockey club that Mr Koltsov played for and later worked for as an assistant coach.
“It is with deep sorrow that we inform you that the coach of Salavat Yulaev, Konstantin Koltsov, has passed away,” a statement by the team said on Tuesday.
The club described him as a “strong and cheerful person” who was “loved and respected by players, colleagues and fans”.
The statement added: “Konstantin Evgenievich forever wrote himself into the history of our club.
“May he rest in peace.”
Mr Koltsov played for the Belarus national hockey team in the 2002 and 2010 Winter Olympics – and spent parts of three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins, in the National Hockey League, between 2002 and 2006.
Renowned for his speed on the ice, Mr Koltsov played for Salavat Yulaev when they won the Russian Super League in 2008.
He was first linked to Sabalenka in June 2021, according to People magazine, and the pair have frequently posted pictures together on social media.
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Konstantin Koltsov celebrates a goal in 2009. Pic: Reuters
In an Instagram post in April last year, Sabalenka, 25, posted a birthday message to Mr Koltsov, writing: “You are my dearest person, my best friend and my strongest support.
“I hope we will have everything we planned. I love you.”
Mr Koltsov was also seen supporting Sabalenka after she won her second consecutive Australian Open title in January, defeating China’s Zheng Qinwen to take the crown.
Last week, the Belarusian lost in the last 16 at Indian Wells following defeat to Emma Navarro.
Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email [email protected]. Alternatively, letters can be mailed to: Freepost SAMARITANS LETTERS.
