Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has been named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People for 2024, underlining the champ’s significant impact – both on and off the rugby field.
This accolade places Kolisi amongst a renowned group of global figures, who have made remarkable contributions in their respective fields over the past year. Kolisi is honoured alongside fellow sports luminaries such as Patrick Mahomes, Max Verstappen, and Jenni Hermoso on the TIME list.
Siya, who now plays for Racing 92 in France, has led the Springboks to back-to-back World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, making him one of the most successful captains in rugby history.
Kolisi’s leadership on the field is matched by his influence off it, where he serves as a symbol of hope and resilience for many South Africans.
His journey from overcoming childhood poverty to achieving global recognition is a powerful narrative of triumph against adversity. In being recognised as one of the most influential figures of the year, TIME underlines Kolisi’s role as more than a sports figure – he’s a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Siya, and his wife, Rachel, are co-founders of the Kolisi Foundation – an organisation that seeks to support people living in under-resourced communities in South Africa. The couple continue their efforts to make a difference in South Africa, living abroad in Paris.
Trevor Noah pens Kolisi’s entry for TIME’s 100 Most Influential People
Kolisi’s entry in TIME was penned by fellow South African Trevor Noah, former host of the Daily Show, who emphasised Kolisi’s importance in bridging cultural divides in South Africa through rugby.
“(Kolisi) has been the embodiment of hope during a time in which many South Africans find it hard to hold on to any”.
“Through his wisdom and humility, Siya has taught us what a powerful captain should be: someone who serves and inspires those he leads. And for him to lead a team in a historically white sport, to be loved and adored by fans of all races, is an immense achievement.”
Noah highlighted how Nelson Mandela used rugby as a unifying force, a legacy that Kolisi continues to build on through his leadership.
“It’s like the connective tissue of the nation,” said Noah, speaking on the ability that sport has to unite our nation.
Acknowledging the incredible honour of being named TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People for 2024, Siya took to Instagram writing:
“Being named to the 2024 #TIME100 list is an incredible honour, one that deeply humbles me. It’s a profound responsibility to stand alongside individuals who dedicate their lives to enriching others. This recognition isn’t just for me; it reflects the numerous individuals and communities who have poured into me and shaped me to be person I am and am becoming…”
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Kolisi has led the Springboks through numerous victories, and will continue to be a guiding force as the team prepares for upcoming games including a series against Ireland and a test against Portugal in Pretoria and Durban in June later this year.
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Feature Image: Instagram / @siyakolisi
