IMG SOURCE: people.com
Konstantin Koltsov, an illustrious figure in the world of ice hockey, has tragically died at the tender age of 42, according to a statement from Russian club Salavat Yulaev. Hailing from Belarus, Koltsov’s dedication and prowess on the ice had earned him an admirable professional career that spanned nearly two decades. His impressive journey in the sport involved stints at the National Hockey League (NHL) where he represented the Pittsburgh Penguins for three seasons from 2002 to 2006.
The Belarusian star also had the honor of representing his homeland in the Winter Olympics, showcasing his superior skills in the 2002 and 2010 editions of the games. Following the closure of his professional journey as a player in 2016, Koltsov shifted his focus to coaching. His insightful strategies and deep understanding of the game led him to serve as an assistant coach for Salavat Yulaev Ufa, a prominent team in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) from 2022-2024.
While the timeline of their relationship remains uncertain, Koltsov and Belarusian tennis superstar Aryna Sabalenka went public with their romance in June 2021. Their affection for each other was often shared on their social media profiles, where they frequently posted about their shared moments. Sabalenka, currently participating in the Miami Open as the second seed, had Koltsov by her side in Miami.
However, in a tragic turn of events, news surfaced from Belarusian and Russian media revealing that Koltsov had died in Miami. The cause of his death, at this point, remains undisclosed.
In the wake of Koltsov’s sudden demise, Salavat Yulaev, the KHL team he was coaching, took to Telegram to confirm the heartbreaking news. The team paid homage to Koltsov’s vivacious personality and expressed their deep condolences to his loved ones.
“We regret to announce the passing of our coach, Konstantin Koltsov. He was a vibrant and jovial individual, loved and respected by his peers, colleagues, and fans. Konstantin Evgenievich has permanently etched his name into the annals of our club’s history,” posted the club (translated from Russian).
“Koltsov clinched the Russian Championship and the Gagarin Cup in Salavat Yulaev’s colors, and made significant contributions to our coaching staff. The entire Salavat Yulaev hockey club extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Konstantin Evgenievich Koltsov. May his memory be eternal…”
Koltsov had chosen a tiger-themed gold necklace as a Valentine’s Day gift for Sabalenka last month. Sabalenka, the World No. 2, proudly showed off her new accessory on social media and indulged in playful banter with Koltsov.
“Valentine’s Day turned out to be quite successful for me, but not so much for Konstantin Koltsov,” Sabalenka posted on her Instagram story.
Sabalenka’s inclination towards tigers is well-documented, with the two-time Grand Slam champion sporting two distinctive tattoos of roaring tigers on her body: one on her inner left forearm and the other on her upper left thigh.
Reference: sportskeeda.com
