Paris 2024: A Breakthrough Moment for Women's Rugby

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World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said it was an unforgettable tournament after the Sevens programme was completed.

"From France's men winning the first gold of Paris 2024 to the incredible atmosphere in a packed Stade de France, it has been breathtaking.

"The stars have shone brightly. Rugby has reached more people in more nations than ever on and off the field.

"We've also seen records broken across the board, including the opening day of the women's competition, which saw over 66,000 fans descend on Stade de France.

"Visibility of the women's game has never been higher. We're confident we've laid a solid foundation for the game to continue to flourish.

"We have no doubt the women's game is going to continue to soar."

Beaumont congratulated New Zealand, the women's gold medal winner, second-placed Canada and third-placed USA on their success in the women's event, and all teams who contributed to the success of the Sevens Olympics.

"Merci Paris. Merci France. We can't wait for LA 2028."


Canada and the USA are looking to the future on the back of their Paris performances.

Canada's captain, Olivia Apps, told The Canadian Press she was confident that the side's programme, which was rebuilt from scratch after the Tokyo Olympic Games, was sustainable and had a strong foundation.

"We've built a lot of belief and confidence in what we're able to do.

"To have the most players under 25 or under 28 is huge. If you look at USA, at France and New Zealand, their average ages are probably around 28-30. By 30, as a female athlete you're really coming into your peak. That's really exciting to think about."

USA's Ilona Maher said she hoped her side's performance in winning a medal by beating Australia in their playoff game would see them play in more stadiums like Stade de France. 

She also hoped they would receive more funding as they prepare to host the tournament in 2028.

"We need more girls in the US trying rugby and seeing what it can do for them."

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