Former NHL player and boyfriend of Aryna Sabalenka, Konstantin Koltsov dies at 42

On Tuesday, Russian club Salavat Yulaev announced the passing of Konstantin Koltsov, a former professional ice hockey player from Belarus. Koltsov, who was 42 years old, was also known as the boyfriend of tennis player Aryna Sabalenka, adding to the sadness of his untimely demise.

Forward Koltsov represented the Belarus national team in the 2002 and 2010 Olympics and had stints with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the National Hockey League from 2002 to 2006.

Salavat Yulaev, based in Ufa, Russia, released a statement expressing their deep sadness over the passing of their coach, Konstantin Koltsov.

Known for his speed on the ice, Koltsov helped Salavat Yulaev win the Russian Super League title in 2008 and later returned to the club as an assistant coach.

In June 2021, Koltsov and Sabalenka were romantically linked, with the tennis star frequently sharing photos of them together on social media.

Following Sabalenka's victory at the Australian Open, Koltsov congratulated her on the achievement.

Sabalenka recently competed at Indian Wells and is set to play at the Miami Open this week.