We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again—whoever is in charge of celebrity romances this year seems to have a grudge against our favorite stars. Another power couple has bitten the dust, leaving South Africans in shock. This time, it’s Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, who have announced the end of their marriage.

Known for their strong family values, the Springbok players have long been admired not just for their rugby skills, but also for their commitment to their loved ones. Siya Kolisi, the leader both on and off the field, was no exception. His love story with Rachel began in 2012, when he fell head over heels for her.

As he recalled in an interview with News24, “It was scary. I asked her to lunch, and that’s when I told her how I felt. She played hard to get at first, but eventually, she admitted her feelings too. The rest is history.”

But now, that history has taken an unexpected turn. In a joint Instagram post, Siya and Rachel shocked fans across the country, revealing that they have decided to part ways. The post, which sent social media into a frenzy, detailed how the decision to separate was mutual and amicable, but still heartbreaking. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, the couple emphasized their ongoing friendship and dedication to co-parenting their children with love and care.

“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 have always known. We will also continue to work on the foundation that means so much to us,” they shared in the post.

Though the news came as a complete surprise, it has left many wondering if an earlier controversy might have contributed to the split. Not too long ago, a user on X (formerly Twitter) stirred up trouble when they accused Siya Kolisi of being “The biggest DMer of note in South Africa,” implying that he had a habit of sending direct messages to women.

The accusation quickly went viral, but the user later issued a public apology for the defamatory statement. Still, some fans can’t help but speculate whether this incident added strain to an already delicate situation in the Kolisi household.

While the reason behind the breakup remains unclear, one thing is certain—Siya and Rachel’s split has left their fans heartbroken, closing a chapter on what was once one of South Africa’s most admired celebrity marriages. For now, the couple’s focus remains on their children and their continued work with the Kolisi Foundation, showing that while their love story may have ended, their commitment to making a difference remains strong.