Tatjana Smith Lauds Rachel Kolisi as Siya Kolisi Receives Massive Support
- Tatjana Smith shared a heartfelt message online, expressing admiration for her sister-in-law, Rachel Kolisi’s character
- Despite being separated from Siya Kolisi, Rachel brought their two children to Paris to support him during his milestone 100th Test match
- The public and fellow South Africans responded warmly, praising Rachel for her strength, parenting, and role as a positive example
Former Olympic swimmer Tatjana Smith, formerly Shoenmaker and wife of Rachel Kolisi’s brother Joel Smith, has publicly shown support for her sister-in-law with a touching message online.
Tatjana praised Rachel for her character and kindness after she attended her estranged husband, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi’s milestone 100th Test match in Paris last weekend.
Source: Getty Images
Despite their separation, Rachel brought their two children, Nicholas and Keziah, to France to cheer on Siya. In an Instagram comment, Tatjana wrote:
"Honestly, just in awe of the person you are and your heart ♥️"
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Fellow South Africans also expressed admiration for Rachel’s dedication as a mother. @maaya_makaora commented:
"The pride we have for how a stellar mom you are 😍🔥❤️🙌"
@anel_henn wrote:
"Such a powerhouse and role model of a woman. 🔥 Well done."
@oneoracle:
''We love you, mother of the nation.''
@rochellefreeman wrote:
''And you were holding up! Superwoman, I hope you are getting some rest too.''
@sarahlxuw wrote:
''Yes, show the world you are number one mother and Siya is a good father.''
Other fans celebrated the family moments Rachel shared, including her children’s excitement to return to school after the trip.
Source: Getty Images
Rachel and Siya Kolisi: From milestones to co-parenting
Rachel and Siya Kolisi, who married in 2016 and share two children, have been co-parenting since announcing their divorce in 2024. Their final public appearance as a couple came in October 2024 at the Siphekele iSizwe Empowerment Hub through their Kolisi Foundation, where they shared joyful moments with children despite underlying tensions.
Shortly after, the couple confirmed their separation, emphasising their commitment to raising Nicholas and Keziah with love and care. In a joint statement, they said:
"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."
Since the divorce, Siya has been candid about personal challenges that affected their marriage, including struggles with alcohol and other lifestyle issues, as revealed in his documentary and autobiography, Rise.
He also acknowledged flirting outside his marriage. His Christian mentor confronted him, highlighting the gap between his social media image and private behaviour. These revelations shed light on the personal pressures that contributed to the breakdown of their relationship.
Eben Etzebeth speaks on the 2019 brawl
Briefly News previously reported that Springbok star Eben Etzebeth has opened up in his new book Unlocked about the infamous 2019 Langebaan brawl and the allegations that followed.
In a candid account, the towering lock recounted confronting four men, known as the “Langebaan Four,” who accused him of assault and using a racial slur.
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Source: Briefly News
