Aryna Sabalenka opens up about ‘intense’ month after ex-boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov’s tragic death following Madrid Open final loss to Iga Swiatek
- Sabalenka faces the consequences of Koltsov’s sudden death
- She fell in the tie-break against Swiatek on Saturday on the clay court of Madrid.
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World No. 2 tennis player Aryna Sabalenka has opened up about what she calls an “intense month” following the death of her ex-boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov.
Sabalenka was on court in the Madrid Open final – where she fell in the tiebreak 5-7, 6-4, 6-7 (7-9).
“The last month has been quite intense for me and I feel like I haven’t been on stage forever. I’m speechless right now,” Sabalenka said after the loss.
“Thank you so much for this amazing tournament, thank you for the atmosphere, you make this place very special for me and I love playing in front of you all.
“I just tried to play this match as long as possible to enjoy this beautiful pitch and this atmosphere.”
Aryna Sabalenka spoke of an ‘intense month’ after losing in Madrid Open final
Sabalenka copes with the loss of her ex-boyfriend Konstatnin Koltsov
Sabalenka fell in a tie-break against world number one Iga Swiatek on clay in Madrid.
“Actually, I had to start with Iga – sorry, I’m a little lost. Congratulations on another great tournament. You’re doing an amazing job, and I hope the next tournament comes down to me – we’ll trade!
“Great game, good match. Wow, three hours is a long time. I hope we both recover for the next tournament
“Thank you so much to my amazing team, I’m pretty sure I have the best team with me, you guys help me a lot, you always keep me going, thank you so much and I love you.”
Koltsov’s death was ruled an “apparent suicide” after he fell from the balcony of a five-star hotel in Miami.
The 42 year old manwho shared three children with his ex-wife Julija Mikhailova, was initially said to have joined his girlfriend in town as she prepared for the Miami Open.
Sabalenka later revealed that their relationship had already ended, commenting on the “unthinkable tragedy” of his death.
For help, call Samaritans on 116123 in the UK or visit www.samaritans.org Or www.thecalmzone.net/get-supportor call Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 in the United States.
