Aryna Sabalenka To Play Close Friend Badosa In First Match Since Boyfriend's Death In Miami - UBITENNIS

Aryna Sabalenka To Play Close Friend Badosa In First Match Since Boyfriend’s Death In Miami

By Adam Addicott
3 Min Read
Photo by Ubitennis

Regardless of what happens in Aryna Sabalenka’s opening match at the Miami Open, Paula Badosa says she will be there for her.

The world No.2 has decided to play in the WTA 1000 event but will not conduct any press conferences in the wake of the death of her boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov. Koltsov is a former NHL hockey player who also represented Belarus at the Olympics before turning to coaching after retiring from the game. Police investigating his death have described it as an “apparent suicide” and that they have found no evidence of “foul play.” The Miami Police Department said officers were dispatched to St Regis Bal Harbour Resort in reference to a male who jumped from a balcony.

Following the sad news, the world of tennis has rallied around Sabalenka will many sending their condolences to the two-time Australian Open champion. One of those who has been supporting her is Badosa who she will play on the court later this week. 

“She’s one of my best friends. Of course, I know what she’s going through. Honestly, for me hasn’t been easy, too.” Badosa told reporters. 
“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, and let’s see.”

According to People magazine, Sabalenka had been in a relationship with Koltsov since 2021. On social media, there are various photos of the two together.

“I know the entire situation, what is happening. That for me is a little bit shocking also to go through that because in the end she’s my best friend and I don’t want her to suffer. It’s a very tough situation.” Badosa continued. 
“At the same point playing against her, it’s also uncomfortable. I don’t 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.” 

Given the circumstances, it is hard to predict what will unfold in the upcoming match. Sabalenka is continuing her practice sessions in Miami but is not making any public comments yet. 

However, Badosa admits that it will be a tough task to take on somebody who is very familiar with her game style. It will be their fifth meeting on the tour with their head-to-head currently level at 2-2. 

“I think when you play against players who know each other very well, the key points is how we play in that moment, how we feel physically and mentally. I think it’s going to be that kind of match. Hopefully goes my side.” She concluded. 

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