Cheslin Kolbe, born on October 28, 1993, is a South African professional rugby union player who plays for Suntory Sungoliath in the Japan Rugby League One and the South Africa national team. His regular position is wing, but he also plays fullback. He has recently featured as a flyhalf for Toulouse in the top 14 and as a scrumhalf for the Boks.
Here, you will know Cheslin Kolbe’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, and more.
Cheslin Kolbe’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cheslin Kolbe |
| Date of Birth | October 28, 1993 |
| Age | 31 (as of May 2025) |
| Education | Hoërskool Brackenfell, University of Cape Town |
| Nationality | South African |
| Height | 1.71 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2012 |
| Net Worth | $4 million |
| Salary | R22 million/year (approx. $1.2 million) |
| Career Earnings | See table below |
| Wife | Layla Kolbe (née Cupido) |
| Children | 3 (Kylah, Mila Skye, Cayden) |
| @cheslinkolbe | |
| @cheslinkolbe |
Early Career
Cheslin Kolbe grew up in Kraaifontein, a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa. From a young age, he was passionate about rugby, using the sport as a positive outlet in a community often challenged by poverty and violence. Kolbe attended Hoërskool Brackenfell, where he quickly stood out for his skill and determination despite being considered small for the game.
His early promise led to selection for Western Province’s youth teams in 2009, and by 2012 he made his debut for the senior side. Kolbe’s talent was recognized on the international stage when he represented South Africa in the Sevens team, winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. His early years were marked by resilience, hard work, and a drive to prove doubters wrong.
Professional Career
Kolbe’s professional journey began with Western Province, where he played a key role in their 2014 Currie Cup victory. He soon joined the Stormers in Super Rugby, making a name for himself with his agility and game sense.
In 2017, Kolbe moved to France to play for Toulouse, where he won multiple Top 14 titles and the European Champions Cup. His performances in France elevated him to global stardom, and in 2021, he signed with Toulon, further boosting his profile and earnings.
By 2023, Kolbe joined Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan’s Rugby League One, becoming one of the highest-paid rugby players in the world. Throughout his career, Kolbe has been a crucial player for the South African national team, helping the Springboks win the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and 2023, and earning a reputation as one of rugby’s best wingers.
Wife
Cheslin Kolbe is married to Layla Kolbe (formerly Cupido), a chartered accountant. The couple met in 2013 after a Currie Cup match and got engaged in 2016. They married in 2018 in Stellenbosch, surrounded by family and friends.
Kolbe and Layla have three children: Kylah, Mila Skye, and Cayden. Kolbe often shares his love for his family on social media, referring to his children as his “crew.” His family is a major source of happiness and motivation, providing support throughout his rugby journey.
Cheslin Kolbe’s Net Worth Details
Cheslin Kolbe’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million as of 2025.
Contract
Kolbe’s latest contract is with Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan’s Rugby League One. He reportedly earns R22 million per season, making him one of the highest-paid rugby players globally.
His move to Japan came after successful stints in France with Toulouse and Toulon, where he also commanded top-tier salaries. Kolbe’s contracts have consistently reflected his value as a world-class player, with each move marking an increase in his earnings.
Salary
Kolbe’s annual salary with Tokyo Sungoliath is approximately R22 million (about $1.2 million USD). This salary places him above many of his Springbok teammates, including the national captain. His monthly earnings are around R1.83 million, reflecting his status as a marquee player in the Japanese league.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Toulon | €1,000,000 ($1,200,000) |
| 2022 | Stormers (Offer) | R11,000,000 ($750,000) |
| 2023 | Tokyo Sungoliath | $1,050,035 |
| 2024 | Tokyo Sungoliath | R22,000,000 ($1,200,000) |
| 2025 | Tokyo Sungoliath | R22,000,000 ($1,200,000) |
Endorsements
Kolbe’s marketability has attracted several major brands. He has endorsed at least nine companies, including Gilbert Rugby, Incanda Furniture, and Kooi Beds. His endorsements cover a wide range of products, from sports equipment to lifestyle goods.
Some deals may include equity stakes, further boosting his financial portfolio. Kolbe’s popularity, both in South Africa and internationally, ensures that his endorsement income remains strong.
Career Stats
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| International Debut | 2018 |
| Test Caps (Springboks) | 39 |
| Test Tries | 18 |
| Rugby World Cups Won | 2 (2019, 2023) |
| Olympic Medals | 1 Bronze (2016 Sevens) |
| Currie Cup Titles | 1 (2014, Western Province) |
| Top 14 Titles | 2 (Toulouse) |
| European Champions Cup | 1 (Toulouse) |
| Challenge Cup | 1 (Toulon) |
| Regular Positions | Wing, Fullback, Fly Half |
FAQs
1. Who is Cheslin Kolbe?
Cheslin Kolbe is a South African professional rugby union star, known for his explosive pace and elusiveness on the wing and occasional fullback role for Tokyo Sungoliath and the Springboks.
2. What teams has Kolbe played for?
He began his career with Western Province and the Stormers in South Africa before starring at Toulouse and Toulon in France, currently playing for Tokyo Sungoliath while representing the Springboks.
3. What major honors has Kolbe achieved?
Kolbe has won two Rugby World Cups with South Africa (2019, 2023), a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic sevens, multiple Top 14 championships and a European Champions Cup.
4. What is Cheslin Kolbe’s background and early life?
Born in Kraaifontein in 1993, Kolbe attended Hoërskool Bredasdorp and the University of Cape Town. He began rugby in South Africa Sevens before joining Western Province’s youth setup.
5. How does Kolbe’s physical stature influence his play style?
At 1.71 m and 75 kg, Kolbe’s low center of gravity combines with explosive speed and agility, enabling sharp footwork, evasive stepping and surprising contact power despite his relatively small stature.
