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 expressed their love for each other and their family on social media, admired by many South Africans, who saw them as one of the leading couples in the country.
The news of their separation caused a stir on social media with fans expressing their shock that their stormy marriage is coming to an end.
The pair asked for respect and privacy as they try to “navigate this transition”.
Siya Kolisi was the captain of the national rugby team that won the World Cup in 2019, and Rachel was a spokesperson for women’s empowerment and social justice in South Africa.
He was the first black captain of the Springboks, in a game that previously featured a number of white South Africans.
Many South Africans view the multi-racial celebrity couple as a symbol of the “rainbow nation”, where racial tensions remain high after the end of apartheid.
In an interview he had with the BBC earlier, Kolisi revealed the “horrible” abuse he and his white wife had experienced on social media.
The couple got married in 2016 after four years of dating, and have two children together. They also adopted Kolisi’s younger sister and brother after their mother’s death in 2009.
The couple released a joint statement on Instagram on Tuesday, saying their decision to separate was mutual and amicable.
“This decision comes from a place of love, respect and understanding that this is the best way for both of us,” they said.
They did not state the reasons for their separation but acknowledged the problems they faced as a couple.
They said they will raise their four children and continue working together in their foundation.
Kolisis had recently returned to South Africa, Siya having joined the Sharks in September, after canceling his one-year contract with French Racing.
The two 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 at their separation, while others expressed their support for the two.
“We have to take a break tomorrow as a country. We are saddened by the news of Siya and Rachel’s divorce,” said another fan on X.
“Their legacy as a power couple will endure, inspiring generations to come,” reports the Times Live website.
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