Siya Kolisi’s Star-Struck Moment with Carlos Alcaraz

By: Kim Kay

What happens when rugby and tennis meet? You get a double World Cup-winning Springbok captain experiencing a fan moment of his own.

A Big Win In Italy, Followed By A Big Night In Turin

Fresh off South Africa’s 32–14 victory over Italy in Turin, Siya Kolisi, who made his 101st appearance for the Springboks, headed to the 2025 Nitto ATP Finals at the Inalpi Arena. A lifelong tennis fan, Kolisi was ready for a world-class night of sport.

Kolisi Meets Carlos Alcaraz

Inside the arena, Kolisi had a moment he will never forget. When world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz approached him for a photo, Kolisi was visibly stunned.

“He came to me… Alcaraz. Oh my goodness,” he said in a video that quickly went viral.

Kolisi also met Félix Auger-Aliassime after engaging with him on social media. Cameras caught Kolisi dancing and enjoying the atmosphere during breaks, earning cheers from the crowd.

A Tournament To Remember

Alcaraz went on to defeat Auger-Aliassime in the semi-final. The final featured Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, who claimed the title after a strong performance.

Kolisi told ATPTour.com he was “very excited” to attend the Finals and called the Alcaraz–Sinner rivalry “huge.” It was also the first time he had seen both players compete live.

A Crossover Moment Loved Worldwide

The interaction between Kolisi and the tennis stars highlighted the universal joy of sport. Even global icons get swept up in admiration when two disciplines collide.