New Zealand secures gold in women’s rugby sevens at the 2024 Olympics, defeating Canada 19-12 in a thrilling final, while the USA clinches bronze, their first in the sport

New Zealand‘s women’s rugby sevens team successfully defended their Olympic title by defeating Canada 19-12 in a fiercely contested final at the 2024 Summer Olympics. The Black Ferns, as they are known, demonstrated resilience and skill, overcoming a halftime deficit to secure their third Olympic medal in rugby sevens.

The match began with Canada taking an early lead, heading into halftime with a 12-7 advantage. Canada’s robust defence and tactical play initially stifled New Zealand’s attempts to dominate the game. However, the reigning champions regrouped during the break, coming back stronger in the second half.

New Zealand’s Michaela Blyde and Stacey Waaka were instrumental in the comeback, each scoring crucial tries that turned the tide in their favour. Blyde’s swift movements and Waaka’s strategic play proved too much for the Canadian defence, securing a decisive 19-12 victory and retaining their Olympic crown.

This victory marks another significant achievement for New Zealand, adding to their silver medal from Rio 2016 and gold from the previous Olympics. The team’s consistent performance underscores their dominance in the sport.

In the battle for the bronze medal, the United States secured their first-ever Olympic rugby sevens medal with a thrilling 14-12 win over Australia. As the game neared its end, Australia seemed poised for victory, but a remarkable play by Alex Sedrick turned the game around. Sedrick broke through the Australian defense, scoring a try to level the scores and then securing the win with a conversion.

Great Britain finished in seventh place after being eliminated by the USA in the quarter-finals. They ended their campaign with a 28-12 victory over Ireland, who placed eighth. This performance highlights the competitive nature of women’s rugby sevens, with teams from various countries showcasing significant skill and determination.

Analysis

Political

The New Zealand team’s victory in the 2024 Olympics carries broader political implications, particularly regarding national pride and the global positioning of the sport. Rugby is a central part of New Zealand’s cultural identity, and their success on the international stage reinforces the country’s status as a powerhouse in rugby. This achievement can foster national unity and pride, particularly in a sport so closely tied to the country’s heritage. It also highlights the support and investment in women’s sports by New Zealand, showcasing the country’s commitment to gender equality in athletics.

Social

Socially, the success of New Zealand’s women’s rugby sevens team and the competitive nature of the tournament reflect growing global interest and support for women’s sports. The media coverage and public interest in the event help to elevate the visibility of female athletes, contributing to broader societal changes in attitudes towards women in sports. This victory, alongside the USA’s historic bronze medal win, underscores the importance of providing equal opportunities and resources for women athletes, encouraging more participation and support for women’s sports at all levels.

Racial

The event also touches on racial dynamics within sports. Rugby, traditionally dominated by countries like New Zealand and Australia, is becoming more inclusive, with teams from diverse backgrounds competing at high levels. The success of diverse teams highlights the sport’s global reach and the importance of embracing diversity within sports. This inclusivity is crucial for the sport’s growth, as it draws in audiences and participants from different cultural and racial backgrounds, enriching the sport’s community and expanding its appeal.

Gender

The prominence of the women’s rugby sevens tournament in the Olympics showcases significant strides in gender equality within sports. The competitive and entertaining matches, coupled with the high level of skill displayed, challenge outdated stereotypes about women’s sports. The success of teams like New Zealand and the USA also highlights the increasing investment in women’s sports, both in terms of funding and training facilities. This progress is essential for levelling the playing field and providing women athletes with the recognition and support they deserve.

Economical

Economically, the performance of teams like New Zealand and the USA can have significant implications for the sport. Successful teams often attract sponsorships, media rights deals, and increased merchandise sales, contributing to the financial growth of the sport. The visibility of women’s rugby sevens at the Olympics also provides a platform for promoting the sport globally, potentially leading to increased participation and viewership. This expansion can open new markets and revenue streams, benefiting players, teams, and governing bodies.