Siya and Rachel Kolisi shocked fans on October 27 by announcing their separation. The news left many wondering what could have gone wrong in a love story that inspired millions.
Speculation surrounds Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s struggles with womanizing, as he has been candid about his battles with pornography, alcohol, and marital challenges. Reflecting on his journey, Siya shared, “I had to go to marriage counselling because I couldn’t give everything to my wife; because my heart was so hard.” This stark honesty sheds light on the difficulties that may have strained their relationship.
Rachel, on the other hand, walked a more independent path before meeting Siya, as she built her own identity and life. Their contrasting journeys may have played a role in their eventual split.
Love story that captivated SA
The Kolisis first met at a dinner party in Stellenbosch in 2012. What began as friendship blossomed into romance, leading to their marriage in 2016. Their relationship wasn’t just about love; it represented resilience and commitment. Together, they navigated parenthood, welcoming their son Nicholas in 2015, and took in Siya’s siblings after a family tragedy.
Siya’s career reached historic heights when he became the first black captain of the Springboks, leading the team to Rugby World Cup glory in 2019 and again in 2023. In 2020, the Kolisis co-founded The Kolisi Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to tackling inequality in South Africa. Despite their shared successes, the couple ultimately decided to go their separate ways after returning to South Africa.
Focus on family amid the split
Despite their separation, Siya and Rachel remain committed to co-parenting their children, Nick (10) and Keziah (7), as well as caring for Siya’s siblings, Liyema (22) and Liphelo (17). They have vowed to maintain a respectful friendship, showing that while their romantic relationship has ended, their family’s foundation remains strong.
Siya’s upbringing in Zwide, Gqeberha, deeply influenced his perspective on relationships and emotional health. Reflecting on his childhood, he said, “Growing up in the township, your parents aren’t watching you every minute, and kids end up seeing things they shouldn’t.” His journey highlights the importance of confronting past traumas to break destructive cycles.
Rachel’s stunning comeback in style
Since the split, Rachel Kolisi has stepped into the spotlight with newfound confidence. She turned heads at the 2024 Sports Industry Awards, wearing a stunning white, off-the-shoulder gown with a high-leg slit. Rachel attended the event with her brother Joel and received the Sport Lifetime Community Award for her philanthropic work through The Kolisi Foundation.
Expressing her gratitude on social media, she wrote, “The last time I received an award was my matric prize giving. Incredibly grateful. And there is no way it would have happened without my @kolisi_foundation team, who are the most committed and hard-working people I’ve ever met.”
Rachel’s recent appearances have sparked conversations, including her attendance at Prince William’s Earthshot Prize Awards. Her striking black “revenge dress,” made from recycled materials, was a nod to sustainable fashion and drew comparisons to Princess Diana’s iconic look from 1994.
Rachel living her best life
Beyond red-carpet moments, Rachel continues to inspire others by sharing her fitness journey. She regularly hits the gym with her daughter Keziah, embracing physical and emotional well-being. “Working out helps me become my best self mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally,” she shared on social media.
Rachel balances motherhood, philanthropy, and self-care with moments of joy. Recently, she enjoyed a mom’s night out with Joel and his wife, Olympic swimmer Tatjana Schoenmaker, attending a performance by Grammy-winning singer Tyla in Johannesburg. “One of the best nights I’ve had in a long time,” she commented.
While their marriage has ended, the Kolisis’ shared legacy lives on through The Kolisi Foundation. Focused on empowering disadvantaged communities through education, health, and sports development, the foundation remains a testament to their shared vision for a better South Africa.
Siya and Rachel Kolisi are navigating their new paths, they continue to inspire resilience, growth, and a commitment to family and community.
Stay tuned with The South African as Siya and Rachel Kolisi divorce truths are revealed.