On January 27, 2024, Aryna Sabalenka achieved yet another milestone in her burgeoning career, claiming her second consecutive Australian Open title. The Belarusian tennis star, ranked No. 2 in the world, delivered a flawless performance, not dropping a single set throughout the tournament. Her dominance was especially evident in the final, where she overpowered No. 12 seed Zheng Qinwen, defeating her 6-3, 6-2 in a clinical display of power and precision. Sabalenka’s performance earned her the prestigious Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup for the second year in a row and prize money totaling AUD 3,150,000. Among the many congratulatory messages she received, one from her longtime boyfriend, Konstantin Koltsov, stood out. Koltsov, a former professional ice hockey player, expressed his pride on Instagram with a heartfelt post, captioning it, “Congratulations again, my love.”
Sabalenka and Koltsov’s relationship became public in June 2021. Both hail from Minsk, Belarus, and have supported each other’s careers and shared numerous special moments together, often showcased on social media. Koltsov, who represented Belarus in the Winter Olympics in 2002 and 2010, has become a significant part of Sabalenka’s life, cheering her on through her highs and lows. Before her relationship with Koltsov, Sabalenka was reportedly engaged in 2019, although she kept her then-fiancé’s identity private. Since she and Koltsov went public, the couple has been open about their bond, sharing photos from their travels and quality time spent together in places like Rome, Florida, and Mallorca.
Sabalenka’s triumph at the Australian Open 2024 also marked a historic achievement, making her the first woman to defend her title in Melbourne since Victoria Azarenka accomplished the feat in 2013. The Belarusian powerhouse faced a challenging lineup, defeating notable players such as Ella Seidel, Brenda Fruhvirtova, Lesia Tsurenko, Amanda Anisimova, Barbora Krejcikova, Coco Gauff, and Zheng Qinwen to secure the title. Sabalenka’s journey in the tournament showcased her impressive mental strength and adaptability, as she battled through some tough matches and delivered a seamless final performance.
In a press conference following her win, Sabalenka reflected on the differences between her 2023 victory and her 2024 title run. Her maiden Grand Slam title in Melbourne last year had come after defeating Elena Rybakina in an intense contest, an emotional experience that symbolized a breakthrough for Sabalenka. This year, with her second Major title under her belt, she realized that each win feels unique and carries its own emotional weight. Sabalenka admitted that she used to find it amusing when seasoned champions would tear up after winning a Grand Slam, even if they had done so multiple times before. Now, however, she understands why the emotions never fade, regardless of how many titles a player accumulates.
“So, I feel like, because before I was watching all these champions crying after each Slam, I was, like, come on, you’ve done it, like, 15 times,” Sabalenka explained. “Why are you still crying? Right now, I didn’t even get to that point, but I feel like I understand why they’re still crying,” she added with a laugh. Sabalenka’s comments highlighted the immense pressure and expectations that accompany Grand Slam tournaments, as well as the emotional release that follows a hard-fought victory. “Because every time, the same pressure, the same expectations. You want it the same way. So it’s always emotional. Yeah, it’s still the same, you know,” she concluded.
Sabalenka’s journey to back-to-back Australian Open victories is a testament to her growth as both an athlete and a competitor. Her ability to stay calm and focused under pressure has been instrumental in her success, and she has shown resilience in the face of adversity. Sabalenka’s consistent performance over the past two years has made her one of the most formidable players on the WTA tour, and her recent accomplishments only add to her rising reputation. This title marks her second Grand Slam trophy, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite and leaving fans eager to see what she will achieve next.
As Sabalenka continues to build her career, her relationship with Koltsov has been a source of stability and support. The former NHL player’s experience in professional sports has allowed him to relate to the challenges Sabalenka faces, and he has been by her side throughout her ascent to the top. Their shared Belarusian roots and understanding of the sports world seem to have forged a strong connection between them, and their public expressions of love and support resonate with fans who appreciate seeing Sabalenka’s personal side.
In the coming year, Sabalenka will face new challenges and defend her titles with an ever-growing target on her back. However, with her relentless drive, supportive partner, and the lessons she has learned along the way, she appears well-equipped to handle whatever lies ahead. Her journey as a two-time Australian Open champion is an inspiring story of determination, perseverance, and the deep, enduring emotions that accompany success at the highest levels of professional sport.