Latvian Basketball Star Janis Timma Found Dead in Moscow in Apparent Suicide
Latvian basketball player Janis Timma, 32, was found dead in a Moscow residential building on Tuesday, in what authorities are treating as an apparent suicide, according to Russian state media reports.
Discovery and Initial Details
The state-run TASS news agency, citing an unnamed emergency official, reported that Timma’s body was discovered at the entrance of a central Moscow apartment building. Beside him, a phone was found containing a message believed to be his “final wish.”
The words “call Anya” reportedly appeared on the phone, according to Ren TV. “Anya” is the nickname of Anna Sedokova, a Russian-Ukrainian pop star and Timma’s ex-wife.
Connection to Anna Sedokova
Sedokova, who turned 42 on Monday, announced earlier this fall that she had filed for divorce after four years of marriage. The two shared no children together but have kids from previous relationships.
Reacting to the news on Instagram, Sedokova appeared visibly emotional, describing her life in recent years as “hell.” She urged her followers to help protect her children from learning about Timma’s death.
Circumstances Leading to His Death
According to Baza, a Telegram news channel with ties to Russian law enforcement, Timma allegedly died from asphyxiation. Reports suggest he had arrived in Moscow two days before Sedokova’s birthday and checked into a central Moscow hotel, where he was later found.
Basketball Career
Janis Timma had a distinguished career, playing for prominent Russian clubs BC Zenit St. Petersburg and BC Khimki between 2015 and 2021. He later joined Spain’s Obradoiro club, which expressed deep sadness at his passing.
Tributes and Condolences
Both BC Zenit and BC Khimki released statements offering condolences to Timma’s family and friends. Obradoiro also extended its “heartfelt support” during this difficult time.
A Tragic Loss
The sudden death of Janis Timma marks a tragic end for a celebrated athlete whose contributions to European basketball will be remembered.
