World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has faced her share of adversity, but few challenges could rival the emotional weight of March 2024, when her ex-boyfriend, former Belarusian hockey star Konstantin Koltsov, tragically took his own life in Miami. Speaking candidly, Sabalenka revealed how her team rallied around her, even hiring a psychologist to support her, but ultimately, she found the strength to navigate the heartbreak on her own.
A Shocking Tragedy Amidst the Miami Open
Sabalenka was preparing to launch her Miami Open campaign when news broke that 42-year-old Koltsov had died after jumping from a balcony. Although Sabalenka clarified that the two were no longer in a relationship at the time, the loss shook her deeply. Wearing all black on the court, the usually formidable player struggled to focus, exiting the tournament early.
The loss evoked painful memories for Sabalenka, who had endured the sudden death of her father, Sergiy, in 2019 at just 43 years old. These back-to-back traumas tested her resilience, but her team quickly intervened to offer professional support.
Psychologist Hired, but Sabalenka Finds Inner Strength
“My team got a bit nervous after the last situation [with Koltsov], and they hired a psychologist,” Sabalenka shared in an interview with The Age. “When I spoke to him, he said, ‘How did you handle so many dramas in your life?’ That’s when I realized, ‘OK, I don’t need a psychologist. I can handle it by myself.’”
Sabalenka credited her ability to process grief and trauma to focusing on what she could control: her attitude and behavior. “You cannot control others,” she explained. “You just have to focus on the positives.”
From Heartbreak to Triumph
Despite the emotional toll, Sabalenka’s remarkable resilience shone through. She bounced back later in the year to capture her third Grand Slam title at the US Open, cementing her place as one of the most dominant players in women’s tennis.
The Belarusian also found love again, beginning a relationship with entrepreneur Georgios Frangulis. It marked a new chapter for Sabalenka, who continues to turn personal hardships into motivation for success.
A Legacy of Strength
Sabalenka’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of unimaginable loss. From the death of her father to the passing of her ex-boyfriend, she has continuously shown that inner strength and a positive outlook can lead to triumph, both on and off the court.
As the world No. 1 prepares for the 2025 season, her story remains a powerful example of resilience in sports—and in life.