By Adnaan Mohamed
Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has sent a heartfelt message to Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, congratulating him on reaching an incredible milestone of 100 Test matches for South Africa.
Despite having to play with 14 men for the entire second half after lock forward Lood de Jager was controversially red-carded, Kolisi’s Bok side produced an inspiring performance to earn a crushing 32-17 win over France .
In a special video message shared on his Instagram account, Klopp spoke with deep admiration about Kolisi’s journey from humble beginnings in Zwide to becoming a two-time Rugby World Cup-winning captain.
“Siya, my friend, another milestone in one of the most incredible sports careers I’ve ever heard of,” Klopp said.
“The things I love in life the most are stories about people who made their way. Obviously, the most inspiring stories are the stories where the start was at a time when nobody could even imagine that a positive future was possible, and I think that’s your story.”
Kolisi, who led the Springboks to World Cup glory in 2019 and again in 2023, became only the seventh South African to play 100 Tests for his country when he captained the Boks against New Zealand earlier this year.
A lifelong Liverpool fan, Kolisi has often spoken of his admiration for Klopp — and the German coach clearly feels the same.
“Calling you my friend is one of the biggest honours I can imagine,” Klopp added.
“Having an idol in a sport I don’t understand at all is pretty special as well.“Congratulations. One hundred, isn’t it crazy? And the best is still to come. Much love from Germany. See you.”
Klopp’s message struck a chord with South Africans and Liverpool fans alike, as two of sport’s most respected leaders shared a moment of mutual respect, proof that inspiration knows no boundaries.