Former NHL Player Konstantin Koltsov Dies at 42: Ex-Wife Shares Emotional Message

In a tragic turn of events, former NHL player Konstantin Koltsov has passed away at the age of 42. Julija Mihailova, Koltsov's ex-wife, took to social media to share her grief and express her gratitude for the support they have received during this difficult time.

Mihailova, who currently works for a real estate company in South Florida, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram along with a photo of Koltsov with their three sons: Daniel, 18, Alexander, 16, and Stefan, 5. She expressed the pain of losing a father to their children and mentioned the struggle to come to terms with the reality of his death.

The tragic incident occurred on March 18 when Koltsov apparently died by suicide. The Miami-Dade Police Department confirmed that first responders were dispatched to the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort in Miami Beach after reports of a male jumping from a balcony. No foul play was suspected.

According to The Daily Mail, Mihailova stated in an interview with Zerkalo, a media outlet in Belarus, that Koltsov was likely under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. She mentioned that empty alcohol bottles were found in the room where he stayed, which was located on the 23rd floor of the hotel overlooking the ocean.

Mihailova expressed her desire for a dignified goodbye for Koltsov and mentioned that the funeral will take place in Minsk, Belarus. However, she didn't provide an exact date for the ceremony.

It was reported that Koltsov had been dating tennis star Aryna Sabalenka, who is currently ranked No. 2 in the world. Sabalenka clarified on her Instagram that they had broken up before the tragic event. Mihailova spoke positively about Sabalenka, stating that she treated her children well and that she has a normal attitude towards her.

Despite the heartbreaking news, Sabalenka will be participating in the Miami Open, which starts on Friday. However, she will not be taking part in post-match press conferences. Instead, she released a statement on her Instagram Story in both English and Belarusian, asking for privacy for both herself and Koltsov's family during this challenging time.

Koltsov, who had transitioned into coaching, worked as an assistant coach for the Russian club Salavat Yulaev, which confirmed his untimely death. The hockey community mourns the loss of a talented player and coach.