Tennis legend Jimmy Connors has backed Aryna Sabalenka, who chose to compete at the Miami Open in 2024 following the unexpected death of her former boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov.
Connors urged people who were doubting Sabalenka’s participation to keep their opinions to themselves since they believed the rising star from Belarus would face criticism whether she competed or not.
Former NHL player Koltsov passed away in Miami on Monday in an apparent suicide, according to the authorities. Koltsov played ice hockey for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
In a message shared on her Instagram account, two-time Australian Open winner Sabalenka addressed the heartbreaking news.
After some fans expressed surprise at Sabalenka’s decision to play, Connors stood up for her on a podcast. Connors expressed his thoughts about it and said: “With all due respect, there are some things that people should keep their comments to themselves on. Unless you’re really in her shoes and know what she’s going through and what her thoughts are, it’s better to stay away. Even though that is devastating, only she knows how she takes it. She would be criticised if she pulled out or she’s going to be criticised if she continues to play because that’s just the way people are.”
He further added: “Back in the day, when I was playing, tennis was a good escape for me. [I was] going through a lot of things and a lot happening, so going out gives you a mental break; it takes your mind away from a lot of things that are happening away from the court. It’s her choice and it’s how she tries to deal with it on her own. And my thoughts go out to her because I know tennis is a tough enough game to go out and play against your opponent.”
Sabalenka in Miami, ranking, and results in 2024
LWLWWWWLWW Ranked world no.2, Aryna achieved an overall 14-3 match record in 2024. Sabalenka is participating in Miami where she overcame the world no.80 Paula Badosa Gibert 6-4 6-3.
Aryna Sabalenka will face the world no.36 Anhelina Kalinina in the 3rd round on Saturday at 8:30 pm on STADIUM. They have never played each other up to now on the main tour.
Aryna clinched 1 title in 2024 at the Australian Open. The Belarussian was the finalist in Brisbane (Brisbane International).
Sabalenka won 14 titles in her career: 10 on hard courts, 2 on clay courts and 2 on indoor courts. (See the list of her titles)
