South Africans shocked by Siya and Rachel Kolisi’s divorce

The Kolisis were one of South Africa’s most loved couples

South African rugby star Siya Kolisi and his wife Rachel have announced their divorce after more than a decade together, leaving their fans heartbroken.

The two often shared their love for each other and their family on social media and were admired by many South Africans, who saw them as one of the country’s power couples.

News of their split caused a frenzy on social media, with fans expressing shock at the end of their celebrated marriage.

The pair asked for respect and privacy as they try to “navigate this transition.”

Siya Kolisi captained the national rugby team that won the World Cup in 2019 and last year, while Rachel has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and social justice in South Africa.

He was the first black captain of the Springboks, a sport previously associated with South Africa’s white minority.

Many South Africans saw the mixed-race celebrity couple as a symbol of the “rainbow nation”, where racial tensions are still alive 30 years after the end of apartheid.

In a previous interview with the BBC, Kolisi revealed the “horrific” social media abuse he and his white wife suffered.

The pair married in 2016 after four years of dating, and they have two children together. They also adopted Kolisi’s younger sister and brother after her mother died in 2009.

The couple released a joint statement on Instagram on Tuesday, saying the decision to separate was mutual and amicable.

“This decision comes from a feeling of love, respect and understanding that this is the best path forward for both of us,” they said.

They did not explain the reasons for the separation, but they acknowledged the challenges they faced as a couple.

The pair said they would still co-parent their four children and continue to work together on the foundation they created.

The Kolisis had just returned to South Africa, with Siya rejoining the Sharks in September after canceling his one-year contract with French team Racing.

The pair were undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most loved couples, with Siya often describing Rachel as her rock and biggest supporter.

Many South Africans took to social media to express their sadness over the split, with others expressing support for the pair.

“We need to take up family responsibility leave tomorrow as a country. We are devastated by the news of Siya and Rachel’s divorce,” one fan posted on X.

“Their legacy as a power couple will endure, inspiring future generations,” reported the Times Live website.