Top Players to Watch in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup
Discover the top players to watch in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, featuring standout talents from around the globe.









The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is set to be an electrifying event, showcasing the best talent from across the globe. Here are some of the standout players to keep an eye on:
Prop - Hope Rogers (United States)
Hope Rogers has been a dominant force for Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR). With a hat-trick against Australia and becoming the most-capped women's player for the United States, Rogers is a key player to watch.
Hooker - Katalina Amosa (Australia)
Despite her recent Test debut, Katalina Amosa has quickly risen to prominence, starting in four of Australia's past five Tests. Her dynamic play and try-scoring ability make her a formidable opponent.
Prop - DaLeaka Menin (Canada)
DaLeaka Menin, another Exeter Chiefs standout, is known for her powerful play. Her performance in the Pacific Four Series against New Zealand highlights her potential to disrupt any defense.
Lock - Manae Feleu (France)
Manae Feleu, co-captain of France, has been instrumental in the Women's Six Nations with her breakdown turnovers and line-out steals. Her leadership and skills will be crucial for France's World Cup campaign.
Lock - Michaela Leonard (Australia)
Michaela Leonard, a veteran of the last World Cup, brings experience and leadership to the Wallaroos. Her ability to disrupt line-outs will be vital in their match against England.
Flanker - Sophie de Goede (Canada)
Sophie de Goede, known for her barnstorming carries and goal-kicking ability, is a star of the PWR. Her return from injury will be a boost for Canada's World Cup aspirations.
Flanker - Kennedy Tukuafu (New Zealand)
Kennedy Tukuafu, co-captain of New Zealand, is a sharp and dynamic flanker. Her fitness and experience make her a key player in New Zealand's quest for another World Cup title.
Number eight - Aseza Hele (South Africa)
Aseza Hele has shown tremendous growth since her selection for the 2022 World Cup. Her dominant performances for Harlequins and in warm-up matches highlight her potential.
Scrum-half - Pauline Bourdon Sansus (France)
Pauline Bourdon Sansus is arguably the best scrum-half in the world. Her magical moments and excellent kicking game make her a player to watch.
Fly-half - Ruahei Demant (New Zealand)
Ruahei Demant, co-captain of the Black Ferns, brings experience and skill to the fly-half position. Her leadership and silky play will be crucial for New Zealand.
Wing - Kelly Arbey (France)
Kelly Arbey, one of the youngest players in the French squad, has shown her ability to perform against the best. Her pace and offloading game make her a threat on the wing.
Centre - Alex Tessier (Canada)
Alex Tessier, comfortable at both fly-half and inside centre, is a key player for Canada. Her dangerous running game and leadership will be vital for their World Cup campaign.
Centre - Ilona Maher (United States)
Ilona Maher, with her powerful frame and social media following, is a standout player for the United States. Her performance in the tournament opener against England will be crucial.
Wing - Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand)
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, considered the greatest in women's rugby history, has come out of retirement for the World Cup. Her try-scoring ability remains unmatched.
Full-back - Claudia Pena (Spain)
Claudia Pena, despite Spain's tough opening games, has shown her potential with sharp acceleration and strong contact skills. She will be a handful for any defense.