Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, one of the most recognizable and accomplished players in world rugby, has announced her retirement from international rugby following the Paris Olympics.
Woodman-Wickliffe, a fan favorite, has been a standout in both sevens and XVs rugby for over a decade, leaving a significant impact both on and off the field.
Beginning her athletic career as a professional netballer, Woodman-Wickliffe transitioned to rugby through the Go4Gold program and was part of the inaugural Black Ferns Sevens team in the 2012 World Series.
Her career is decorated with numerous accolades, including winning the Rugby World Cup in 2017 and 2022, the Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2013 and 2018, an Olympic gold and silver medal, and Commonwealth Games gold and bronze medals.
Woodman-Wickliffe holds several records, including the most tries in Rugby World Cups (20), the most tries in a Black Ferns Test (eight), and the most tries in Sevens Series history (256).
Recognized by World Rugby, Woodman-Wickliffe was named Sevens Player of the Year in 2015, Women’s Player of the Year (XVs) in 2017, and the top women’s sevens player of the past decade in 2020.
Reflecting on her career, Woodman-Wickliffe said, “After 12 incredible years representing New Zealand in sevens and 15s, the upcoming Paris Olympics will be my last time playing in the black jersey. Rugby has provided me more than a career; it’s given me a second whanau (family) in my sisters, opportunities to see the world, and experiences I never would have otherwise. One last dance with my sisters in Paris.”
New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson highlighted the immeasurable impact Woodman-Wickliffe has had on the sport, stating, “She is a once in a generation player who reached the pinnacle on the field on multiple occasions and has also helped to grow the women’s game globally. She is an incredible ambassador who represents everything great about our sport.”
Black Ferns Sevens Coach Cory Sweeney praised Woodman-Wickliffe, saying, “It’s been a real privilege to be part of Portia’s journey over the past eight years. Watching her dominate and influence the game makes me feel incredibly proud. She will be hugely missed, but there is one more huge opportunity for her to go out and deepen the legacy she will leave behind.”
The upcoming Paris Olympics will mark Woodman-Wickliffe’s third and final appearance at the games, where she will don the black jersey for the last time.