Konstantin Koltsov, 42, a Belarusian former professional ice hockey player, was found dead in a Miami, Florida, hotel on Monday. He was in the city to support tennis player Aryna Sabalenka during the Miami Open.
Miami-Dade police are investigating the death as an “apparent suicide,” citing no evidence of foul play. However, Koltsov’s ex-wife, Yulia Mikhailova, has expressed doubts, suggesting he was “very drunk” at the time of his death. “Empty alcohol bottles were found in the room where Konstantin stayed,” she told Belarusian news outlet Zerkalo.
Sabalenka, currently ranked world number two by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), expressed her grief on Instagram, writing, “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.”
Despite the tragedy, Sabalenka will continue to compete in the Miami Open, facing her close friend, Spaniard Paula Badosa, on Friday. Badosa acknowledged the challenge of playing against Sabalenka under such circumstances, stating, “She’s my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s a very tough situation.”
Koltsov, known for celebrating a goal against Russia during their IIHF World Hockey Championship quarter-final game in 2009, was remembered for his significant contributions to the sport. His ex-wife disputed the suicide narrative, stating, “I think it was your colleagues who misunderstood something. Or they passed off the police’s assumption of suicide as a fact.” She mentioned that Koltsov had plans for the future, including booked apartments and a rental car, indicating he did not intend to die.
The investigation continues, with authorities examining the circumstances surrounding Koltsov’s death. For those feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal, support is available through Samaritans at 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.org.
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