Portia Woodman-Wickliffe Returns to International Rugby with Eyes on 2025 World Cup

In a major boost for New Zealand rugby, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has announced her return to the international stage, reversing her decision to retire following the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist in rugby sevens had stepped away from the Black Ferns after their triumph in Paris, but her passion for the game has reignited following a standout domestic season. The 33-year-old speedster played a crucial role in Blues Women's Sky Super Rugby Aupiki title win and has now committed to an eight-month contract, signaling her intent to be part of the 2025 Rugby World Cup campaign.

"Throughout the campaign, the idea of pushing for the World Cup kept growing in my mind," said Woodman-Wickliffe. "It wasn’t just about what it meant to me, but also about my whanau. After taking some time to reflect, I feel ready to give everything for the team again."

A legend of the game, Woodman-Wickliffe holds the record for most tries scored in Women’s Rugby World Cup history and was instrumental in New Zealand's World Cup victories in 2017 and 2022.

Her accolades include being named World Rugby’s Sevens Player of the Year in 2015, XVs Player of the Year in 2017, and the Sevens Player of the Decade in 2020 — a testament to her impact across both formats of the game.