Springboks captain Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, have officially announced their decision to part ways after eight years of marriage. The couple shared the news with their followers on Instagram on Tuesday afternoon, stating that their separation was a mutual decision reached after much reflection and open communication.
The couple’s announcement highlighted that this difficult choice came from a place of love, respect, and understanding. They emphasized that while their relationship as a married couple is changing, they will continue to maintain a close bond, especially when it comes to co-parenting their children.
“We have mutually decided to end our marriage. This decision comes from a place of love, respect, and understanding that this is the best path forward for both of us,” their shared messages on social media read.
Despite the end of their marriage, the couple was clear that their friendship remains strong. They also assured the public that their children will continue to receive the same love and care they have always known. “While our relationship as a couple is changing, we remain great friends and committed partners in raising our children with the same love and care they’ve always known,” the post continued.
Siya and Rachel, who share two children, also serve as guardians to Kolisi’s younger siblings. Their commitment to family remains a priority, and they made it clear that they will continue working together to ensure that their children grow up in a stable, loving environment.
Additionally, the couple confirmed that they would remain partners in their philanthropic efforts. They expressed their dedication to the Kolisi Foundation, an initiative that focuses on social issues such as education, gender-based violence, and food security in underprivileged communities in South Africa. “We will also continue working together on the Foundation that means so much to us,” they wrote.https://www.instagram.com/p/DBbqa9INv31/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
In their closing statement, Siya and Rachel extended their gratitude to those who have supported them throughout their relationship and asked for privacy as they navigate this new chapter in their lives. “We are grateful for the love, understanding, and support you’ve shown us, and we kindly ask for your respect as we navigate this transition,” they said.
The announcement comes as a surprise to many, as the couple has been a beloved fixture in South African media. Their relationship has often been admired by fans for its authenticity and their public displays of affection. Over the years, they shared glimpses of their family life and celebrated several milestones, including the release of Kolisi’s documentary, *Rise: The Siya Kolisi Story*, and the captain’s historic leadership of the Springboks to victory at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
This isn’t the first time the couple has made headlines. In previous interviews, both Siya and Rachel have spoken openly about the challenges of balancing public life with family and the pressures that come with Siya’s high-profile career. Yet, through it all, they have remained united in their efforts to support each other and their shared causes.https://www.instagram.com/p/DBbqa9INv31/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
As this chapter closes, it is clear that Siya and Rachel Kolisi are focused on maintaining their family’s wellbeing and continuing their joint efforts to give back to the community, even as they move forward separately in their personal lives.