Rugby Legend Siya Kolisi Speaks on Alcaraz vs. Sinner: ‘It’s Monumental!’
Springbok hero and friend of both Felix Auger-Aliassime and Roger Federer graces the Nitto ATP Finals
November 16, 2025
Caption by Jack Howell/ATP Tour
Carlos Alcaraz and Siya Kolisi share a moment at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin on Saturday.
By Andy West
Just like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Siya Kolisi celebrated a remarkable victory in Turin this past Saturday.
A two-time Rugby World Cup captain, Kolisi commanded the Springboks to a triumphant 32-14 win against Italy at the Allianz Stadium, coinciding with Sinner’s impressive victory over Alex de Minaur to secure his spot in the championship match at the Nitto ATP Finals.
Soon after, Kolisi found himself in the Inalpi Arena, witnessing Alcaraz’s brilliant performance against Felix Auger-Aliassime, paving the way for a thrilling final against Sinner. This eagerly anticipated matchup marks their sixth clash on the Lexus ATP Head2Head circuit in 2025, and as a passionate tennis enthusiast, Kolisi truly appreciates the significance of their rivalry.
“I’m incredibly excited. This is monumental,” Kolisi shared with ATPTour.com in anticipation of the final, set for 6 p.m. CET/noon ET on Sunday. “Sure, Sinner has the home court advantage being from here, but I doubt it’ll faze Alcaraz. He’s a powerhouse and demonstrated his capabilities tonight. It’s bound to be fantastic.”
HILARIOUS @SiyaKolisi reacts to meeting @carlosalcaraz for the first time 😂😂😂 #NittoATPFinals | #Kolisi pic.twitter.com/mfRBoSdLtV
— ATP Tour (@atptour) November 15, 2025
Kolisi first encountered Alcaraz earlier in the week in Turin and couldn’t contain his excitement about meeting the world’s top player in the PIF ATP Rankings. He also got the chance to connect in person with Auger-Aliassime, with whom he has shared many supportive messages on social media.
“This was my first time witnessing Carlos and Felix play live,” said Kolisi following Alcaraz’s straight-set semi-final victory of 6-2, 6-4. “I came here primarily for Felix. We’ve been in touch online, cheering each other on, and this was a perfect opportunity for us to finally meet.”
“The match was intense. Alcaraz was dominant today, but credit to Felix for his tremendous effort. Alcaraz earned that victory, but I have no doubt Felix will bounce back.”
Felix Auger-Aliassime meets Siya Kolisi at the Nitto ATP Finals. Photo Credit: Jack Howell/ATP Tour
Kolisi’s friendship with tennis stars extends beyond Auger-Aliassime. He has shared a close bond with tennis legend Roger Federer, who publicly supported the Springboks during the 2019 Rugby World Cup (Federer’s mother, Lynette, hails from South Africa). When asked about the qualities he admires in tennis players, Kolisi quoted Federer.
“Roger has taught me so much,” Kolisi said. “He emphasizes the importance of letting go of lost points and refocusing on the next one. He’s faced many losses yet has an incredible number of wins. It’s all about resilience.”
Having led South Africa to victory in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups, Kolisi has since accompanied Federer in supporting the Roger Federer Foundation, which focuses on early education initiatives in several countries, including South Africa and Switzerland. Although they’ve yet to hit the tennis court together, Kolisi is eager to play, despite doubts about his skills.
“I’ve attempted to play tennis, but I’m quite terrible at it,” Kolisi admitted. “I would jump at the chance to join Roger in a charity match someday. My tennis skills may need some work, but I’m game to give it a shot!”
