Who Is Matīss Kivlenieks? Age, Biography and Wiki
Matīss Kivlenieks, born on August 26, 1996, was a talented Latvian ice hockey goaltender whose life was tragically cut short in 2021. Renowned for his remarkable skills on the ice, Kivlenieks made a significant impact on the sport during his brief career. By 2025, he is remembered for his remarkable performances and his dedication to ice hockey, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates with fans around the world. Despite his untimely passing at the young age of 24, his contributions to the sport continue to inspire young athletes.
| Occupation | Hockey Player |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 26, 1996 |
| Age | 24 Years |
| Birth Place | Riga, Latvia |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | Latvia |
| Date of death | 4 July, 2021 |
| Died Place | Novi, Michigan, U.S. |
Popularity
Matīss Kivlenieks's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Matīss Kivlenieks stood at an athletic height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) and weighed approximately 190 pounds (86 kg). His impressive physique was ideal for a goaltender, allowing him to cover the net effectively and execute swift movements on the ice.
An autopsy performed on 5 July ruled Kivlenieks's death as accidental, due to a percussive injury caused by fireworks mortar blast, resulting in a major chest trauma to his heart and lungs. Prior to the autopsy, police said Kivlenieks was believed to have slipped and hit his head on concrete while running from the malfunctioning firework.
According to Novi Police lieutenant Jason Meier, the autopsy showed no signs of head trauma or external injuries to his chest. On 5 July, Meier said that the nine-shot firework was legal in Michigan and the person handling it was not impaired and had not broken state laws. Kivlenieks's death was investigated by police as an accident.
On 1 December 2021, the Oakland County prosecutor announced that no charges would be filed in Kivlenieks's death and that the investigation was officially closed.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Matīss Kivlenieks's personal life remains a topic of curiosity among his admirers. While there has been no public information about a girlfriend, boyfriend, or significant other during his life, it is known that Kivlenieks was very close to his family. His family continues to uphold his legacy, sharing memories and stories that highlight his character and passion for hockey.
His father died of natural causes when he was young. His mother and stepfather are restaurateurs. Kivlenieks had a younger sister. He fluently spoke Latvian, Russian, and after playing in the United States, English. He started playing ice hockey at age 3 or 4 after watching his cousin's practices. At age 5, he began playing as a goaltender.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Matīss Kivlenieks had an estimated net worth of around $1 million. This figure reflected his growing career as an NHL goaltender with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he was projected to have a bright future. His salary during his time with the team was estimated to be in the range of $700,000 annually.
Career, Business and Investments
Kivlenieks began his professional career in Europe before making the leap to the NHL with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He played with great dedication and skill, quickly earning respect from teammates and coaches alike. Following a successful stint in the junior leagues and international competitions for Latvia, he made his NHL debut and recorded impressive stats, showcasing his potential for greatness. Though his career was brief, he left a lasting impression on the sport and his rising path promised substantial future earnings and accomplishments.
Kivlenieks started the final two games of the 2020–21 Blue Jackets season, both against the Detroit Red Wings. On 7 May 2021, he made 31 saves on 34 shots in a 5–2 loss. The next night, in what would be his final NHL appearance, Kivlenieks saved 33 of 37 shots in a 5–4 overtime win.
After the end of the season, Kivlenieks was considered a contender for the backup goaltender position in Columbus.
Social Network
Matīss Kivlenieks was active on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where he shared insights into his life as an athlete. His genuine interactions with fans helped cultivate a loyal following, providing a glimpse into the heart of a dedicated player who poured his soul into the game he loved. Following his passing, tributes and memories shared by fans continue to circulate, demonstrating the impact of his short but influential career.
Education
Details about Matīss Kivlenieks's educational background are limited, but it is known that he honed his skills in ice hockey from a young age, dedicating much of his time to the sport. His focus on hockey eventually led him to the professional leagues, where he successfully balanced his sport with the development of his career.
