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OVER the years Siya Kolisi has cemented himself as one of the most iconic players in the world rugby.
Sadly in October 2024, his life off the pitch was dealt a blow when it was revealed that he and his wife Rachel were getting a divorce. Here we look at her story.
Siya Kolisi married Rachel in August 2016 but they are now getting divorced
The former couple seen here with their two childrenGetty Images - Getty
Rachel Smith was born in Grahamstown, which is around 80 miles from Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
Her birthday is on January 21, 1990, and she is a year older than Siya Kolisi, whose date of birth is June 16, 1991.
Rachel is the co-founder and CEO of the Kolisi Foundation.
She is also an Instagram influencer and has a huge following of over 550K fans on her popular handle (as of October 2024).
Read more on Siya Kolisi
Married with kids
The couple got married on August 13, 2016, and they have two children.
Rachel and Siya welcomed their son Nicholas Siyamthanda in 2015.
Then in 2021, they added a daughter to their family called Keziah.
They also adopted Siya’s young half-siblings Liyema and Liphelo, after their mother died in 2009.
Most ready in rugby
The break-up
On October 23, 2024, the couple revealed they had split up and were getting divorced.
They released a joint statement on Instagram and said their split was “mutual and amicable”.
“This decision comes from a place of love, respect and understanding that this is the best path forward for both of us,” they said.
They did not give reasons for their break-up but acknowledged the challenges they have faced as a couple.
The pair said they would still co-parent their four children and continue to work together on their foundation that they have set up.
Rachel and Siya's split statement in full
Rachel and Siya released this joint statement, which read: “We wanted to share some important news with you. After much reflection and open conversations, 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.
“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. We will also continue working together on the Foundation that means so much to us.
“We are grateful for the love, understanding, and support you’ve shown us, and we kindly ask for respect as we navigate this transition.
“With gratitude and love,
“Siya and Rachel.”
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