Thierry Henry opens up on his special bond with Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth

By SABC Sport
2nd November 2026

French football legend Thierry Henry has opened up about his admiration for the Springboks, revealing how Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth have helped the national rugby team become a powerful symbol of unity in South Africa.

Henry, a former Arsenal and France international, recently visited South Africa in his capacity as a global ambassador for Betway, joining the build-up to the Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.

Speaking on Metro FM, the 1998 FIFA World Cup winner reflected on his connection with South Africa, which dates back to 1997 when he made his debut against Bafana Bafana.

Although his visit was centred around football, Henry made it clear that he has a special appreciation for the Springboks, particularly after witnessing their historic triumph at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

The Springboks defeated England 32-12 in the final, with Kolisi becoming the first black captain to lift the Webb Ellis Cup.

Henry admitted that the significance of the moment moved him, despite not being a South African supporter.

"Game recognises game," he said.

"When Siya lifted the Rugby World Cup, being the first black man to do it, I'm not a South African fan. But I was South African on the day just because of what it represented.

"I woke up early to watch that final; I still have it on my phone because I didn't want to miss that moment. I just didn't."

The former Barcelona and Arsenal forward also revealed that he has developed a relationship with several Springbok players, including Kolisi, Etzebeth and Damian Willemse, who visited his home during last year's end-of-year tour.

Henry particularly highlighted the partnership between Kolisi and Etzebeth, believing their presence in the team reflects the unifying power of South African rugby.

"I know Siya, and I know Eben Etzebeth. Those are the guys that I love to talk to because there is a lot that we can learn from rugby, especially in our game and what that team represents for your country.

"When they play, the country comes together. There are no limits or differences in terms of what they represent," he added.

Henry also admitted that he regularly questions the players about the culture within the Springbok setup and whether they fully understand the responsibility that comes with representing the country.