South African rugby star Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, have announced their divorce after over a decade together, leaving fans devastated. The couple, admired by many for their love and strong family bond, were often seen as one of the country’s most prominent power couples. News of their split has sent shockwaves across social media, with fans expressing disbelief and sadness.
Siya and Rachel, who tied the knot in 2016 after four years of dating, have asked for privacy as they navigate this transition. In a joint statement on Instagram, they emphasized that the decision was mutual and amicable, stemming from love and respect. They also committed to co-parenting their four children and continuing their joint work with the Kolisi Foundation.
Siya Kolisi, the first black captain of the Springboks, led South Africa to World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, while Rachel has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and social justice. Their interracial marriage had long been seen as a symbol of the “rainbow nation” in post-apartheid South Africa, inspiring many in a country where racial tensions remain prevalent.
Despite the public admiration, the couple has been open about the challenges they faced, including online abuse. Kolisi once revealed in an interview the “horrible” social media backlash they endured as a mixed-race couple.
The Kolisis recently returned to South Africa, where Siya rejoined the Sharks in September after ending his contract with French side Racing. Their divorce has sparked an outpouring of support and heartbreak from fans, with some calling their legacy as a power couple inspiring for future generations. One fan remarked on social media, “We need to take family responsibility leave tomorrow as a country. We are shattered by the news of Siya and Rachel’s divorce.”