Jimmy Connors defends Aryna Sabalenka as he weighs in on her Miami Open participation

Ewan West
Aryna Sabalenka looks on
Aryna Sabalenka is back in action in Washington D.C. this week.

Tennis legend Jimmy Connors has backed Aryna Sabalenka over her decision to compete at the 2024 Miami Open following the sudden death of her former boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov. 

The former world No 1 urged those questioning Sabalenka’s participation to “keep their comments to themselves” and feels the Belarusian star would be criticised whether she played or withdrew.

Koltsov, former a ice hockey player who played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, died in Miami on Monday aged 42 in what police described as an “apparent suicide”.

Two-time Australian Open champion Sabalenka addressed the devastating news in a message posted on her Instagram account.

“Konstantin’s death is an unthinkable tragedy, and while we were no longer together, my heart is broken,” the 25-year-old wrote. “Please respect my privacy and his family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

Despite the tragic loss, the world No 2 is competing at the Miami Open, but she will not attend any press conferences during the tournament.

In her opening match at the WTA 1000 event on Friday, Sabalenka remarkably defeated her best friend Paula Badosa 6-4, 6-3 in an emotional second round contest.

READ MORE: Paula Badosa’s gushing praise for Aryna Sabalenka after emotional match in Miami

Speaking on his Advantage Connors podcast, Connors defended Sabalenka after some fans had expressed surprise at her choosing to play.

“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 [you] know what she’s going through and what her thoughts are, it’s better to stay away,” said the eight-time Grand Slam champion.

“Even though that is devastating, how she takes it, only she knows. She would be criticised if she pulled out or she’s gonna be criticised if she continues to play, because that’s just the way people are.

“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] to go out, it 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.

“To work, to train, and to try to be as good as she is, let alone with something outside the court that is as devastating as this to have on your mind.”

Sabalenka will face world No 36 Anhelina Kalinina of Ukraine in the third round in Miami.

READ MORE: Every word Paula Badosa said after emotional match against Aryna Sabalenka

Related Articles