Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, one of the most recognizable and decorated players in world rugby, has announced her retirement from international rugby after the Paris Olympics.
Woodman-Wickliffe, a beloved figure in the rugby community, has excelled in both the sevens and XVs formats for over a decade, making a significant impact on and off the field.
Initially a professional netball player, Woodman-Wickliffe transitioned to rugby through the Go4Gold program and was part of the inaugural Black Ferns Sevens team that competed in the World Series in 2012.
Her impressive career includes 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 with 20, the most tries in a Black Ferns Test with eight, and the most tries in Sevens Series history with 256.
She has been honored by World Rugby multiple times, 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 shared on social media, “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 praised Woodman-Wickliffe’s immeasurable contribution to the sport, stating, “She is a once in a generation player who reached the pinnacle on the field on multiple occasions and off the field has helped to grow the women’s game across the globe. She is an incredible ambassador and represents everything great about our sport.”
Black Ferns Sevens Coach Cory Sweeney also lauded Woodman-Wickliffe, calling her one of the all-time greats. “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 deepen the legacy she will leave behind,” said Sweeney.
Woodman-Wickliffe will wear the black jersey for the last time when she competes with the Black Ferns Sevens in Paris, marking her third appearance at the Olympic Games.