Rachel Kolisi Unwinds in Western Cape Bliss: A Family Escape After Springbok Support

Rachel Kolisi Unwinds in Western Cape Bliss: A Family Escape After Springbok Support

  • Rachel Kolisi rallied her loved ones to cheer on her ex-husband's 100th test cap, showcasing unwavering family spirit amid their split
  • Back home, Rachel posted serene beach moments and outdoor escapades with her kids and siblings, radiating post-vacation glow
  • Social media lit up with admiration for the single mom's relaxed vibe
Rachel Kolisi shows support for ex-husband Siya Kolisi
Rachel Kolisi flew to France to support ex-husband, Siya Kolisi. Image: rachelkolisi
Source: Instagram

Just a week after waving Springbok flags in France, Rachel Kolisi traded the roar of international rugby crowds for the gentle crash of Western Cape waves, treating her inner circle to a rejuvenating getaway that screamed self-care and sibling solidarity. The 35-year-old influencer and dedicated mom-of-two, whose life has been under the microscope since announcing her separation from rugby icon Siya Kolisi in October 2024, dropped a series of Instagram snapshots that painted her weekend retreat as pure escapism.

The timeline of Rachel's whirlwind November couldn't be more telling. Barely days after touching down from France she, pivoted to a low-key family jaunt. Accompanied by her brother Joel Smith and his wife, Olympic swimming sensation Tatjana Smith, Rachel's escape doubled as a tribute to the tight-knit support system that has carried her through the headlines.

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Tatjana, who praised Rachel's strength, brought her own brand of golden energy to the mix, turning what could have been a solo recharge into a full-family frolic. Rachel's updates showed her fully immersed: one frame freezing her mid-sip on a pristine beach, toes buried in cool sand, while another zoomed in on her and the children charging through an exhilarating outdoor romp.

See the full post below:

Fans weigh in

The digital response was a tidal wave of tenderness, with Rachel's followers flooding the comments like high tide. One user, @xoxopottery_designs, wrote:

"You look so happy and so beautiful. Have the best time."

@flowersbubenita_1 said:

"Too amazing. Look after [yourself] first."

@meraki_cape_town wrote:

"I love this. Have the best time!"

@capitalcay wrote:

"Glowing."

From rugby WAG to independent force

Rachel Kolisi, born Rachel Smith, married Springbok captain Siya Kolisi in 2016 and quickly became one of South Africa’s most recognised celebrity wives. The couple, who share two children, announced their separation in October 2024 after eight years of marriage. Despite the split, Rachel has continued to publicly support Siya’s rugby career, most recently travelling to France with the children to celebrate his 100th Test cap on 9 November 2025.

Since the divorce announcement, Rachel has focused on her role as co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, which drives education, gender-based violence and food-security initiatives across South Africa. She has also maintained her commercial partnerships and influencer presence, often using her platform to speak openly about motherhood, mental health and personal growth. Her recent Western Cape getaway with her brother Joel and sister-in-law Tatjana Smith highlighted her close family ties and her commitment to creating happy moments for her children post-separation.

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Rachel Kolisi is giving independent woman vibes after split from husband
Rachel Kolisi has emerged independent following her separation from Siya Kolisi. Image: rachelkolisi
Source: Instagram

Does Rachel Kolisi feel betrayed?

Following the end of their eight-year marriage, Siya and Rachel Kolisi have not stopped making headlines. Rachel was just in the news after sharing a post cryptically about "betrayal trauma".

Briefly News reported that the post left fans speculating about the divorce.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Katleho Mositoane avatar

Katleho Mositoane (Entertainment writer) Katleho Mositoane is an entertainment writer at Briefly News (joined 2025). She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Journalism from the University of the Free State. She writes columns that explore the social, political, and economic dynamics in Africa. She began her journalism career at Seipone community newspaper, where she reported on local sports stories. She has published articles with The Chanzo, a Tanzanian outlet and The Rational Standard, a South African commentary platform. She also served as a Writing Fellow at African Liberty. Contact Katleho at katleho.mositoane@briefly.co.za