Aryna Sabalenka, the powerful Belarusian tennis sensation and winner of the 2023 Australian Open, has been in a close relationship with former ice hockey player Konstantin Koltsov since June 2021. This romantic partnership has been a constant source of support for Sabalenka, especially as she navigates her high-profile career on the WTA circuit amid the complex political and social pressures arising from global events. Together, the two share a deep bond that is frequently showcased through heartwarming photos and social media posts, giving fans a glimpse into her life off the court.
Koltsov, a former Pittsburgh Penguins player in the NHL, has been by Sabalenka’s side through her various tournaments, travels, and moments of triumph. The couple has been open about their affection, often posting images from vacations and dinner dates. One recent post from Koltsov featured him kissing Sabalenka on the cheek after a romantic dinner, with the two dressed stylishly for their night out. Their moments together often radiate warmth and support, providing a refreshing look at a softer side of the typically intense Sabalenka. On one such occasion, she captioned their photo together with a playful message: “Well, we went for a general meal,” tagging Koltsov and adding heart emojis to share her joy with her followers.
The support Sabalenka receives from Koltsov has become especially meaningful as she grapples with the pressures not only of elite competition but also of navigating a challenging social atmosphere within the world of professional sports. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Sabalenka has found herself caught up in a geopolitical conflict that has impacted athletes on an international scale, particularly those from Russia and Belarus. For Sabalenka, who has focused on building her career and reputation based on her athletic skill and dedication, the reality of strained relations among players on the WTA circuit has been difficult.
While the conflict in Ukraine began as a political and military affair, its effects have spilled over into the sports world, with the WTA experiencing significant tensions. In her own words, Sabalenka has expressed that she now feels an uncomfortable distance from some players, often sensing “strange looks and hatred.” The Belarusian athlete said, “Yes, I see strange looks and hatred towards me from some people. I know that I have done nothing wrong to Ukraine. There are people who don’t like me just because I was born in Belarus. It’s their decision; I can’t control it. Being hated for nothing isn’t the best feeling in the world, but it is what it is.”
This is not the first time Sabalenka has opened up about the challenges she faces due to her nationality. The Belarusian player has admitted that the experience is particularly jarring, given that, prior to the conflict, any negative interactions she faced were largely limited to online criticism from fans, especially after a tough loss. However, she now finds herself in real-life encounters where discomfort, and sometimes hostility, come directly from the players’ locker rooms. “I’ve often experienced haters on social media after a loss, but I’ve never faced so much hate in the tennis locker room,” she revealed. “Yet, I did nothing.”
Sabalenka explained that the strain extends beyond her interactions with other players and can also involve tense encounters with their staff, making the situation even more challenging to navigate. “I’ve had talks that I wouldn’t call real quarrels, but really tough,” she said. “I’m not saying with the other players, but with their staff, yes… It was tough, even if it’s a little better now.” These difficult moments illustrate how a global issue has permeated even the relatively closed-off world of professional tennis, challenging players to confront issues far outside the traditional bounds of their sport.
In spite of these adversities, Sabalenka remains committed to focusing on her career. Her determination and dedication have not wavered, and with Koltsov by her side, she seems to have found a source of stability and strength in her personal life. While her nationality has placed her in a unique position, Sabalenka chooses to focus on her achievements and to remain close to those who support her, which has allowed her to continue performing at an elite level. She recognizes the complexities of her situation but is determined not to let it interfere with her love for tennis.
For her fans, Sabalenka’s openness about her struggles and triumphs—both on and off the court—makes her a compelling and relatable figure. Whether she is facing a top-seeded opponent or navigating the complexities of international perception, Sabalenka’s resilience shines through. Her partnership with Koltsov has only strengthened her resolve, giving her the encouragement she needs to persevere. And as her star continues to rise in the world of tennis, it’s clear that her determination to succeed will carry her forward, regardless of the obstacles she encounters along the way.