Siya Kolisi on Time’s 100 Most Influential People list
South Africa’s pride and joy, Siya Kolisi, has been named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2024.
In October, Kolisi led the Springboks to a 12-11 victory over New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final in France to claim a record fourth title.
South Africa previously won the Rugby World Cup title in 2019, 2007 and 1995.
Kolisi was named captain of the Springboks in 2018 and became the first black man to hold the position.
The Gqeberha-born captain’s journey has not been smooth sailing as he overcame the experience of hunger, violence, alcoholism and injuries.
Kolisi is now based in France, where he has been impressing many with his performances.
However, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has indicated that he preferred the team’s captain to play his rugby in South Africa.
Kolisi responded by saying he understands the coach’s position and wants the best for the team.
"That's normal. I knew that before making the decision to come here. He (Erasmus) speaks, and he says this is the situation; it is what it is; there's nothing I can do about that”.
Meanwhile, the 25th Laureus World Sports Awards are set to take place in May, and Kolisi has been nominated for the World Comeback of the Year Award.
This after he recovered from a serious knee injury he suffered and came back to lead the Springboks to back-to-back World Cup triumphs.
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