SABALENKA HIT BY THE DEATH OF BOYFRIEND

ARYNA SABALENKA’S Miami Open campaign has been rocked by tragedy following the sudden death of her boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov.

The Australian Open champion had been due to compete in the second round of the Sunshine Double as No.2 seed but her involvement in the competition is now uncertain.

Koltsov, 42, (with Sabalenka, above) was a former ice hockey star, playing for NHL side Pittsburgh Penguins for three seasons in the mid-2000s.

He also represented Belarus at two Winter Olympics, coming closest to a medal in 2002 in Salt Lake City when his side finished in fourth place.

Miami-dade Police Department confirmed its officers had taken over the investigation into Minsk-born Koltsov’s death by “apparent suicide” and that “no foul play is suspected”.

Koltsov leaves behind three children from a previous relationship.

Koltsov’s death was confirmed by Russian ice hockey club Salavat Yulaev who described him as 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,” a statement said. “May his memory burn bright.”

Sabalenka and Koltsov, both lived in Miami and had been dating since 2021.

One post from Sabalenka’s Instagram on a previous birthday of Koltsov read: “I love you. Happy birthday my love. You are my dearest person, my best friend and my strongest support.

“Peace be with you, strength, patience and health. I hope we will have everything we planned I love you.”

Sabalenka, 25, received a bye in the first round of the Miami tournament so was not due to play until Friday.

But she has withdrawn from the practice schedules and any mention of her participation on official social media has been removed.