Rachel Kolisi has opened up about her decision to keep the surname she shares with Springboks captain Siya Kolisi following the end of their marriage.
The couple announced their separation in October 2024 after eight years of marriage.
They have two children together, Nicholas and Keziah, and have spoken publicly about their commitment to raising them with love and care.
Since then, Rachel has been navigating a new chapter in her life while continuing to put her family first.
One decision that has attracted attention is her choice to remain Rachel Kolisi.
For her, however, the reasoning is deeply personal.
A decision centred on family
Speaking to South African radio station 947 earlier this year, Rachel explained that sharing a surname with her children makes certain aspects of everyday life easier.
She also spoke about the challenges she has faced when travelling with them, including occasions when people have questioned whether she is their mother because of their different skin colours.
"My children share the same surname as me, and travelling with my children, because they are brown, is already a big challenge," she explained.
Keeping the family name offers a sense of continuity for both Rachel and her children.
It is a practical decision, but also one that reflects the importance of family during a period of considerable change.
'Very proud'
Rachel addressed the subject again during an appearance at the Franschhoek Literary Festival in May.
Speaking about the importance of creating stability for her children, she explained that the family had experienced several major changes in recent years.
As reported by The Citizen, she also made clear that she remains comfortable with the name she has carried for many years.
"For now, I am Rachel Kolisi, and I am very proud to introduce myself as Rachel Kolisi," she said.
She has not ruled out changing her surname in the future, but has made no firm decision.
More recently, Rachel appeared to address renewed public interest in her surname through a light-hearted social media video.
@rachelkolisi Eastern Cape, I’m coming in hot 😅 @falling forward ♬ They See Me rollin songvibezz - 🎵💯🤝
For now, her focus remains on her children, her own identity and the next chapter of her life.
Five of the highest-paid Springboks in 2026 – ranked
South Africa's World Cup winners aren't just dominating on the pitch. Some are also earning enormous salaries.
With lucrative contracts in Japan and big-money deals back home, here are five of the Springboks' biggest earners.
5. Eben Etzebeth – £770,000
Club: Hollywoodbets Sharks
The most-capped Springbok in history remains one of South Africa's best-paid players. His reported package includes club earnings and national support.
4. Siya Kolisi – £775,000
Club: Hollywoodbets Sharks
The double World Cup-winning captain remains one of rugby's most marketable stars. His return to Durban came with a lucrative deal, while sponsorships add to his earning potential.
3. Malcolm Marx – £800,000–£900,000
Club: Kubota Spears
The powerful hooker has become one of Japan's marquee overseas stars. His dominance at the breakdown and set-piece makes him one of rugby's most valuable forwards.
2. Damian de Allende – £850,000–£950,000
Club: Saitama Wild Knights
The two-time World Cup winner continues to command a huge salary in Japan. Few centres can match his experience, physicality and consistency.
1. Cheslin Kolbe – £930,000
Club: Tokyo Sungoliath
The flying winger tops our updated list, with his Japanese contract widely reported to be worth around £930,000 annually.
Kolbe's remarkable career has taken him from Toulouse to Toulon and Japan, where his reputation as one of the world's most dangerous finishers has helped him secure a huge payday.
Note: Salaries are reported estimates rather than confirmed figures. Some estimates may include additional payments, and overlapping salary ranges mean the exact order cannot be independently verified.
