It’s not every day that football royalty sits down for dinner with rugby’s world champions. But this past weekend in London, Thierry Henry did just that — hosting three Springboks for an evening that showed just how deep his connection with South Africa runs.
A Bond That’s Decades In The Making
For Henry, South Africa isn’t just another stop on his football journey — it’s woven into the fabric of his career. The story started back in 1997, when a fresh-faced 20-year-old made his debut for France against Bafana Bafana. A year later, at the 1998 World Cup, his first international goal came in another clash with South Africa — though it’s often remembered for Pierre Issa’s infamous own goal.
Fast-forward to 2010, and Henry’s final game for France was also against Bafana Bafana, closing his international chapter in the same way it began — with South Africa right there in the picture.
From Pitch Battles To Shared Dinners
Now based in London, Henry invited Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, and Damian Willemse for dinner ahead of the Springboks’ Rugby Championship finale against Argentina at Twickenham.
On Instagram, the Arsenal legend shared photos of the dinner with a warm message: “Thanks for coming, guys.” In a follow-up story, he even poked fun at the Springboks for knocking France out of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, saying it “still hurts.”
For Henry, it was a full-circle moment. For the Boks, it was an evening with a man who embodies the same grit, flair, and leadership they bring to their own sport.
When Fandom Meets Friendship
Among the trio, one guest was likely grinning more than most. Damian Willemse, a self-proclaimed Arsenal fan, has long admired Henry. Last year, while sidelined by injury, the Stormers and Bok star made a point of visiting the Emirates Stadium to catch Arsenal in Champions League action — a fan moment that now feels like it’s come full circle.
Kolisi, meanwhile, remains loyal to Liverpool, even forming a friendship with former Reds manager Jürgen Klopp, who once invited him to Anfield. It’s another reminder of how deeply sport — whether rugby or football — can bridge cultures and create unexpected friendships.
Fans Love The Crossover
Social media lit up with excitement after Henry and Kolisi posted the dinner photos. South Africans flooded his comments with green hearts and jokes about switching allegiances to the Springboks. “Imagine Henry in a Bok jersey,” one fan wrote. Another added, “Two world champions in one room — what a time!”
It’s a small but powerful image: a French football icon breaking bread with South Africa’s rugby heroes, united by respect, mutual admiration, and a shared love for the game — no matter the code.
Source: IOL
Image Source: Siya Kolisi on Instagram
