Heartbreaking statement released by ex-girlfriend of Konstantin Koltsov

Former Pittsburgh Penguins player Konstantin Koltsov tragically passed away earlier this week at the age of 42 while in Miami. And as tributes began pouring in, his former girlfriend Aryna Sabalenka has spoken out. 

She released the following statement on social media while also clarifying that the pair were not a couple at the time of Koltsov's death.

“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,” Sabalenka posted on Wednesday on social media.

A tennis star, Sabelenka was scheduled to compete in the second round of the Miami Open against her best friend Paula Badosa, who released a statement of her own in support: 

 “Yesterday I spoke with her [for] a lot of time. This morning the same. So I know what she’s going through. I know the entire situation. That for me is a little bit shocking to go through that because she’s my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s a very tough situation.

“At the same point, playing against her, it’s also uncomfortable. But I don’t really want to talk about it because I said I’m not going to talk about it. She’s my best friend and I promised that. She’s a strong woman. I think she will get the power from somewhere. I hope it’s going to be a battle, a good match.”

According to Miami Police, Koltsov's death is being described as an "apparent suicide" and that no foul play is suspected. 

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