New Zealand icon makes dramatic retirement U-turn ahead of World Cup
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe in action for New Zealand Sevens during the Olympic Games
Black Ferns icon Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has made a dramatic retirement U-turn ahead of the upcoming World Cup by signing a new eight-month deal with New Zealand Rugby.
The two-time Olympic Gold Medalist retired from the Test game after the Paris Games, and was set for a brief stint in rugby league with NRLW side Newcastle Knights, but she will now begin preparing for her third World Cup campaign with the Black Ferns as they look to defend their crown in England.
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe makes dramatic Black Ferns return
Commenting on the decision to end her international retirement, the Blues back said: “By week three of Aupiki I was at fifty percent of my decision,” she said. “Each week in campaign I thought about the possibility of how I could potentially go to the World Cup more and more. I thought about what it would mean to me but most importantly my whānau.
“I needed time to process everything and making myself available for this team is where I’ve landed.
“When I said I was going to retire from sevens it was based around having babies, 2025 was about exploring as many opportunities as I could so that when I do end up having them, I can say I’ve tried as much as I can.”
Saudi Arabia sports minister makes bold claim as multi-host 2035 Rugby World Cup bid considered
Black Ferns Director of Performance, Allan Bunting, added: “Portia is an exceptional human and I know she will enhance our Black Ferns environment.
“On the field, she is someone who knows what it takes to win pinnacle events. The game has shifted, and I know Portia is excited about the growth she still has and the contribution she can give.
“Her natural ability to inspire others, her amazing athleticism, knowledge of the game and skillset will have a huge influence on all those around here. I’m really looking forward to seeing her contribution to the team.”
NZR Head of Women’s High Performance, Hannah Porter, also detailed her excitement at seeing Woodman-Wickliffe back in the black jersey.
“We are thrilled to have Portia commit to New Zealand Rugby and the Black Ferns. She’s one of the most globally recognised names in women’s rugby and an incredible ambassador for the game,” she said.
“The significant influence and positive impact she will continue to have on and off the field will be beneficial for all.”
Woodman-Wickliffe is one of the most decorated players in the history of the Women’s game. At the time of writing, she has won two Olympic Gold medals, two Rugby World Cups, two Sevens World Cups and one Super Rugby Aupiki title in 2025.
Individually, she has been named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year once and World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year on two occasions. She also holds the record as top try-scorer in Rugby World Cup history.