Thierry Henry celebrates Siya Kolisi’s inspiring resilience on his 100th Test milestone
Thierry Henry has praised Siya Kolisi’s resilience and leadership after his 100th Test for South Africa.
Image: Instagram/Thierry Henry
Football legend Thierry Henry has praised Springboks captain Siya Kolisi for his resilience, leadership and inspiring journey after he reached his 100th Test milestone for South Africa.
In a heartfelt Instagram message, Henry commended Kolisi for his ability to rise above adversity and remain a source of hope and motivation for others.
“Most of your life you have to deal with adversity, but it's not how you fall, it's how you get back on your feet and stand tall through the storm. KEEP ON INSPIRING. 100 CAPS! Congrats, my brother,” wrote Henry.
Henry and Kolisi’s friendship, built on respect, has recently gained attention, reflecting on their shared commitment to inspiring others.
Last month, during the Springboks’ European tour, Henry hosted Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth and Damian Willemse for dinner in London.
The gathering reflected the camaraderie between the two sportsmen, both of whom have used their platforms to inspire through perseverance and humility.
The Springboks also visited the CBS Sports UEFA Champions League set in London, where Henry works as a football pundit.
Kolisi and his teammates were warmly welcomed by Henry, who often speaks about leadership and mental strength - qualities that resonate deeply with Kolisi’s story.
After their meeting, Kolisi took to Instagram to thank Henry, describing him as “my brother”. Henry responded with the words, “YOU ARE SPECIAL!!” and Kolisi presented him with a Springboks match-day jersey as a token of appreciation.
Kolisi’s 100th Test match took place this past weekend in France, where the Springboks faced off against the French national team.
Since making his Test debut against Scotland in 2013, Kolisi has become one of the most influential figures in world rugby.
His journey from growing up in Zwide township in Gqeberha to lifting the Rugby World Cup trophy as South Africa’s first Black captain in 2019 remains one of the sport’s most powerful stories.
Over the years, he has played a vital role in shaping the Springboks team’s culture, known for its unity and resilience.
His leadership was instrumental in guiding South Africa to back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest captains in the team’s history.