Who won the women’s rugby league world cup?

4 min.

Who won the women's rugby league world cup?

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup is one of the most thrilling events in international sports, showcasing the best talent and unmatched passion from rugby-playing nations around the globe. The competition not only celebrates athletic excellence but also highlights the rapid growth and popularity of women’s rugby league. So, who clinched the prestigious title in the most recent tournament? Let’s dive into the history, the victorious team, and everything you need to know about this incredible event.

Page Contents

What Is the Women’s Rugby League World Cup?

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup (WRLWC) is an international tournament organized by the International Rugby League (IRL). It features the best female rugby league players competing for global supremacy. First held in 2000, the event has grown exponentially in scale and prestige, inspiring countless fans and players worldwide.

Key Facts About the Tournament:

First Edition: 2000 in Great Britain.
Frequency: Held every four years.
Most Recent Host: England, 2022.
Current Format: Eight teams in a group-stage-and-knockout competition.

Who Won the Most Recent Women’s Rugby League World Cup?

The Australian Jillaroos emerged victorious in the 2022 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, solidifying their position as a dominant force in the sport. The team delivered a commanding performance throughout the tournament, culminating in a stunning 54-4 victory over New Zealand in the final.

Why Was Australia So Dominant?

Elite Talent: The Jillaroos boast a squad packed with world-class players, including stalwarts like Ali Brigginshaw and Jessica Sergis.
Strong Team Chemistry: Years of consistent performance and strategic coaching have built a cohesive and formidable unit.
Preparation: Their rigorous preparation and adaptability on the field made them unstoppable.

Recap of the 2022 Women’s Rugby League World Cup Final

The final match between Australia and New Zealand was held on November 19, 2022, at Old Trafford, Manchester, as part of a historic double-header alongside the men’s final. The Jillaroos left no doubt about their supremacy, dominating the game from start to finish.

Key Highlights:

Early Dominance: Australia set the tone early, scoring multiple tries in the first half.
Star Performers: Players like Emma Tonegato and Isabelle Kelly dazzled with their speed and precision.
Record-Breaking Victory: The 54-4 scoreline marked one of the largest margins in a Women’s Rugby League World Cup final.

A Brief History of Past Winners

Since the tournament’s inception, only a handful of teams have claimed the coveted title:

2000: New Zealand (winners of the inaugural tournament)
2003: New Zealand
2008: New Zealand (three-peat champions)
2013: Australia
2017: Australia
2022: Australia

With their latest win, the Australian Jillaroos have now claimed three consecutive titles (2013, 2017, 2022), overtaking New Zealand as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.

Why Is the Women’s Rugby League World Cup Important?

The WRLWC is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of diversity, empowerment, and resilience. Over the years, the tournament has played a crucial role in raising the profile of women’s rugby league and inspiring future generations.

Key Contributions:

Increased Visibility: High-profile broadcasts and media coverage have brought women’s rugby league into the spotlight.
Player Development: The competition provides a platform for emerging talents to shine on the world stage.
Global Expansion: Countries like Papua New Guinea and Brazil have joined the fold, showcasing the sport’s growing global reach.

Memorable Moments from the Women’s Rugby League World Cup

New Zealand’s Three-Peat (2000-2008): The Kiwi Ferns dominated the early years of the tournament, setting a high benchmark for excellence.
Australia’s Rise (2013): The Jillaroos claimed their first title, ending New Zealand’s dominance.
England’s Progress (2022): As hosts, England reached the semifinals, signaling their growing competitiveness on the global stage.

How the 2022 Tournament Changed the Game

The 2022 edition was a watershed moment for women’s rugby league, breaking records and setting new standards for the sport.

Notable Achievements:

Record Attendance: The final drew a crowd of over 67,000 fans at Old Trafford.
Global Audience: Matches were broadcast in over 150 countries, bringing the sport to millions of viewers.
Increased Sponsorship: High-profile sponsors like Gillette and Kayo Sports partnered with the event, underscoring its commercial appeal.

What’s Next for Women’s Rugby League?

The future of women’s rugby league looks incredibly bright. With increasing investments, a growing player base, and heightened interest from fans, the sport is poised for even greater success.

Key Areas of Focus:

Expansion: Adding more teams to future tournaments to increase diversity and competition.
Youth Development: Strengthening grassroots programs to nurture young talent.
Professional Leagues: Expanding domestic women’s leagues like the NRLW to create a stronger talent pipeline.

How You Can Get Involved

If this inspires you to follow or support women’s rugby league, here are some ways to get involved:

Watch Matches: Tune in to events like the NRL Women’s Premiership or international fixtures.
Support Your Team: Attend games, buy merchandise, or follow your favorite team on social media.
Join the Community: Many clubs offer opportunities for fans and players to engage with the sport, whether through social leagues or volunteer programs.

External Resources for Further Exploration

Want to dive deeper into women’s rugby league? Check out these valuable resources:

International Rugby League (IRL): Official updates on the Women’s Rugby League World Cup and other events.
NRL Women’s Premiership: Comprehensive coverage of Australia’s premier women’s rugby league competition.
BBC Sport: In-depth analysis and news about rugby league, including women’s tournaments.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

The Women’s Rugby League World Cup continues to captivate audiences and elevate the sport to new heights. With the Australian Jillaroos reigning supreme in 2022, the tournament showcased the pinnacle of athletic talent, teamwork, and determination. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the game, the WRLWC offers something truly special for everyone.

So, who will claim the next title? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of women’s rugby league is brighter than ever.