Black Ferns great set to retire from international rugby

An icon of women's rugby is set to call time on her international career.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is one of the most recognisable names to don the Black Ferns jersey, both in sevens and 15-a-side game. But the upcoming Rugby Sevens tournament at the 2024 Olympic Games, where New Zealand will be defending their gold medal from Tokyo 2020, will be the iconic winger's last.

The 32-year-old made the announcement on her 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 whānau in my sisters, opportunities to see the world and experience things I never would have otherwise. One last dance with my sisters in Paris."

Woodman-Wickliffe's impact has been a key part of the Black Ferns' success on the international stage - leaving plenty of defenders in her wake, while picking up individual accolades.

Recognised as World Rugby's Sevens Player of the Year in 2015, plus 2017's Women's Player of the Year in XVs, Woodman-Wickliffe was also officially dubbed one of the top women's sevens players of the past decade in 2020.

To go with her Olympic gold and silver medals, Woodman-Wickliffe also has been a Commonwealth Games gold and bronze medalist, along with winning the Rugby World Cup in 2017 and the famous home victory of 2022, plus Sevens World Cup titles in 2013 and 2018.

A player known for her explosive power and speed on the field, off the field Woodman-Wickliffe has remained a fan favourite with her approachable and likeable persona. Her departure from the international game will leave a remarkable legacy in the black jersey for others to follow, sentiments echoed by New Zealand Rugby CEO Mark Robinson.

"It is impossible to measure the impact Portia has had on rugby. 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, where she is an incredible ambassador and represents everything great about our sport," Robinson said.

"Within New Zealand Rugby we talk a lot about winning with mana and Portia certainly personifies that."

Listen to Kirst & Beav's interview with Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: