Inside Siya Kolisi’s Rumoured New Romance: Who Is Rachel John?

When you are the captain of the Springboks, your life rarely stays private for long. And when that captain is Siya Kolisi, every public appearance quickly becomes headline material.

Over the past few months, fans have been piecing together clues about a possible new romance in Kolisi’s life. The rugby star has been linked to 25-year-old influencer Rachel John, with the pair recently spotted at the 75th NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles, California.

It marks a new chapter for Kolisi, who split from his estranged wife, Rachel Kolisi, in October 2024 after eight years of marriage.

So who is the woman now being dubbed the “new Rachel”? Here’s what we know.

The Romance Rumours That Sparked Curiosity

Speculation first began in late 2025 when fans identified Rachel John sitting next to Kolisi at the ATP Tour Finals in Turin. What started as a moment in the crowd quickly snowballed into full-blown dating rumours.

Soon after, Rachel was spotted vlogging from Kolisi’s home in Ballito, adding fuel to the speculation. In December 2025, Kolisi celebrated her 25th birthday in Jeffrey’s Bay. Then, in January 2026, the pair reportedly travelled to Victoria Falls together, the same destination where Kolisi honeymooned in 2016.

While neither has officially confirmed the relationship, their public appearances have kept tongues wagging.

Life After The Split

Kolisi and Rachel Kolisi announced their split in October 2024, ending an eight-year marriage that many South Africans admired.

The former couple share two children, Nicholas and Keziah. They also legally adopted Kolisi’s younger siblings, Liyema and Liphelo, with Rachel playing a significant maternal role in their lives.

For many South Africans, the split felt personal. Kolisi has long been seen as more than a rugby captain. He represents resilience, family values and unity in a country that has often rallied behind him.

Any new relationship was always going to attract attention.

Who Is Rachel John?

Beyond the headlines, Rachel John has her own story.

Here are five key things to know about her.

She Has A Multicultural Background

Rachel was born to a Dutch mother and a Nigerian father. Her blended heritage reflects the global, cross cultural identity that many young South Africans relate to today.

She Is A Kickboxer

Unlike the typical influencer stereotype, Rachel is deeply involved in sport. She is a trained kickboxer, something that naturally aligns with Kolisi’s own athletic lifestyle.

She Is A Major Social Media Influencer

Rachel commands a strong digital presence, with 311 000 followers on Instagram and 782 000 followers on TikTok. Her content spans lifestyle, travel and fitness.

She Is Passionate About Surfing

Rachel is also an avid surfer, often spending time in coastal towns. Her connection to the ocean seems to be more than just a hobby.

She Founded JBay Surf House

One of her biggest ventures is the JBay Surf House in the Eastern Cape, blending entrepreneurship with her love for the coast. Jeffrey’s Bay, known for its world class waves, has long been a magnet for surfers and free spirits alike.

A New Season For The Springbok Captain

Kolisi’s career remains firmly in the spotlight, but it is clear that his personal life continues to evolve. Whether or not the relationship is confirmed publicly, the interest surrounding it speaks to just how invested South Africans are in his journey.

From Turin to Victoria Falls to Los Angeles, this rumoured romance has played out on an international stage. But at its heart, it is a story about two public figures navigating love and life under the watchful eye of a nation that feels connected to its rugby hero.

For now, the question is not just who Rachel John is, but what this new chapter means for one of South Africa’s most recognisable sporting icons.

{Source:The South African}

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