When it comes to tennis, Roger Federer is a name that has always been synonymous with greatness. Despite being at the top of the charts for so long, he barely developed any rivalry with someone while being friends with almost everyone on the courts. However, his friendship is not only restricted to tennis players as the Swiss star has made connections with some of the best names in the world.

One among them is Siya Kolisi, a South African professional rugby union player. At the same time, it might come as a surprise to many, that the two share a great bond and have been spotted together multiple times. But, how did it all begin and what is the special connection that Federer has with South Africa? Let’s find out!

How did Roger Federer and Siya Kolisi meet?

This is a question that many might not know the answer to. It was back in 2020 when Rafael Nadal went to play against Roger Federer in an exhibition match in South Africa. Surprisingly, Kolisi was also present at the match which happened to be the first-ever encounter between the two.

During his time in South Africa at that time, Federer expressed his desire to meet the rugby player and in no less than 24 hours, his wish came to life as he got to meet and play with him. Despite Kolisi being out of rugby due to an injury, he did not miss a chance to play against the legend of the game.

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Back in 2019, Federer extended his support to the Springboks (South African rugby team) which was widely appreciated by both players and fans. Since then, the two have been in constant contact with each other. In multiple interviews, Kolisi has talked about the relationship that he has with Federer while suggesting that the two have been in constant touch with each other.

Thus, their bond has clearly strengthened over the years. So much so, that at the recently concluded Rugby World Cup, Roger Federer was in tears when Springboks laid their hands on victory.

So, when it comes to his South African roots, Roger Federer has always had a soft corner for the country due to his maternal connection. Not only this, his friendship with Kolisi has strengthened over the years, with the Swiss star being a tour guide for him as well.

Roger Federer once became a tour guide for Siya Kolisi

In an interview, Kolisi shared his experience of going to Switzerland and having lunch with the legendary Roger Federer. He said that despite being at such a high level; he is a completely opposite and down-to-earth person in real life. His visit was also treated with huge care by the Swiss great who became his tour guide for him. While talking about his connection with Fed, he shared some great insights.

“Yes, we do talk to each other every now and then and, when he found out that I was coming to Geneva, he invited me for a lunch in Zurich. He is very attached to his South African origins,” said Kolisi in an interview. “I had a lunch in Zurich today with Roger Federer. Someone like him is so big here, but when you sit down with him, you forget how big an icon he is, because he is a normal human being,” he further added.

Not only this, Federer even took to his Instagram to share a picture with the South African player which had Fed’s mom and dad as well. In the caption, Federer mentioned that he became a tourist guide and the pleasure that he had hosting Kolisi in his country.

Thus, these above incidents make it very clear about the connection that Federer has with his friend from South Africa. However, there’s another reason why Federer has a soft side for South Africa. As already mentioned, it comes from his mother.

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What is Roger Federer’s South African connection?

Despite being born and representing Switzerland for the entirety of his career, Roger Federer has a special connection with the African country. Interestingly Federer’s mother Lynette was born in Germiston, which is in South Africa. Thus, this has attracted him to his African roots with him possessing dual citizenship, South African and his native Swiss.

Not only this, he has also been upfront when it comes to working for the betterment of the people there. His foundation, the Roger Federer Foundation, has supported IMBEWU, which is a South African-Swiss organization. The organization works relentlessly towards the betterment of the people while offering youngsters and underprivileged children, a chance to grow and learn.

“Setting up the foundation is my way of trying to give something back, especially to those who are least well off. I chose a project in South Africa because my mother grew up there, which means that I have always had a close affinity to the country,” said Federer in an interview.

Thus, there is a special connection that Roger Federer shares with South Africa and Siya Kolisi. With the two being good friends, they have shared some great time together. Not only this, but his connection with South Africa due to his mother also indicates his love for the people of Africa.

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