South African rugby star Siya Kolisi and his wife Rachel have announced their divorce after over a decade together, leaving their fans devastated.
The couple frequently displayed their affection for each other and their family on social media, gaining admiration from many South Africans who viewed them as a prominent couple in the country.
The news of their separation has caused a stir on social media, with fans expressing disbelief at the end of their celebrated marriage.
Siya Kolisi, who captained the national rugby team to victory in the 2019 World Cup, and Rachel, a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and social justice, have requested privacy as they navigate this challenging time.
As the first black captain of the Springboks, Siya Kolisi broke barriers in a sport historically associated with South Africa’s white minority. The couple, seen as a symbol of the “rainbow nation,” have faced social media abuse for their interracial relationship.
The pair, who wed in 2016 after four years of dating, have two children together and also adopted Kolisi’s younger siblings. In a joint statement on Instagram, they announced their mutual and amicable decision to part ways.
They did not disclose reasons for their split but acknowledged the difficulties they have encountered as a couple. Despite this, they plan to co-parent their children and continue their foundation work together.
The Kolisis, recently back in South Africa after Siya rejoined the Sharks, were adored by many in the country, with Siya often praising Rachel as his pillar of support.
South Africans have expressed sorrow over the divorce, with some showing solidarity for the couple’s future endeavors.
“We need to take family responsibility leave tomorrow as a country. We are shattered with this news of Siya and Rachel with this divorce,” one fan shared on X.
“Their legacy as a power couple will endure, inspiring future generations,” reported the Times Live website.
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