Kolisi became more than a man the moment he hoisted rugby's greatest prize, four years ago in Japan.
Long since a symbol of hope and success for anyone trying to thrive in South Africa's townships, on November 2, 2019, Kolisi shouldered an even greater responsibility.
The Zwide-born back-row forward found a way out of poverty, hunger and danger - through the hardest of graft, enduring love and humility to that 32-12 World Cup Final triumph over England.
The 32-year-old has never let that burden weigh him down. Among all the accolades, the charity foundation, raising his own family and continuing his storied rugby career, perhaps that alone underscores his greatness.
Those without birthright have no use for privilege.
Kolisi is already using his status for good, for change. And a country always conflicted on its future path will doubtless cry out for him to move into politics.
Twickenham erupted in an unmatched roar when Kolisi's face was beamed onto the big screens after South Africa thrashed New Zealand 35-7 in west London last month.
This modern icon long ago transcended rugby. But then he outdid even his great self by recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in four months.
This is preposterous, and yet, has actually happened.
If Kolisi wants any respite from his miracle-man status, the Sharks flanker is going about it all wrong.
A standard hamstring-graft ACL rehabilitation is nine months, while some can stretch to a year.
This story is from the September 07, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
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This story is from the September 07, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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