Women’s rugby has evolved into a global spectacle, with elite athletes from every corner of the world pushing the sport to new heights. From lightning-fast wingers to iron-willed forwards, the women’s game is no longer just rising—it’s thriving. As national teams battle for world titles and domestic leagues become increasingly competitive, a select group of players consistently outshine the rest with their skill, speed, leadership, and impact. These are not just great players—they are icons who redefine what excellence looks like in modern rugby.
In this post, we highlight the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby today—athletes who have delivered breath-taking performances at the international level, broken records, and inspired millions. Whether it’s through commanding the breakdown, sprinting coast-to-coast for a match-winning try, or leading their nation to World Cup glory, each of these stars has earned their place through relentless dedication and consistent brilliance.
The Top 10 Elite Stars featured here are more than athletes—they are ambassadors of the sport, elevating women’s rugby to a new level of respect and recognition. They bring a rare mix of athleticism, intelligence, and heart to every match, and their presence alone can shift the outcome of a game.
So whether you’re a long-time rugby fan or a newcomer discovering the women’s game, get ready to meet the legends of today and the role models of tomorrow. These elite stars are shaping the future of rugby—one dominant performance at a time.
Top 10 Elite Stars in Women’s Rugby that you must know :
10. Ruby Tui (New Zealand)
Ruby Tui is one of the most electric and beloved figures in the world of women’s rugby. Hailing from New Zealand, she has made an indelible mark in both Sevens and XVs formats. A gold medalist at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a World Cup winner in 2021 with the Black Ferns XVs, Tui exemplifies versatility, intensity, and passion. Her game is built on blistering pace, sharp rugby IQ, and fearless physicality, whether she’s diving into tackles or sprinting past defenders on the wing.
Beyond her athleticism, Tui brings unmatched charisma to the sport. Her post-match interviews are as legendary as her plays—full of energy, gratitude, and humor—which have helped attract new audiences to women’s rugby. On the field, she is a leader who inspires both teammates and fans with her work ethic, resilience, and clutch performances during high-stakes moments.
Whether it’s winning breakdowns, creating support lines, or commanding media attention, Ruby Tui continues to redefine what it means to be a rugby star. Her ability to shine in both formats of the game while carrying the spirit of her team makes her an undeniable member of the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby.
| Primary Position | Wing / Utility Back |
| Major Titles | Olympic Gold (2020), RWC 2021 |
9. Emily Scarratt (England)
Emily Scarratt is widely regarded as one of the most complete and consistent performers in the history of women’s rugby. As the linchpin of England’s backline, she brings a rare combination of power, precision, and tactical intelligence that has made her a match-winner across formats. A World Cup champion in 2014 and finalist in 2017 and 2021, Scarratt has consistently been a driving force behind England’s dominance on the international stage.
Known for her composure under pressure, Scarratt is England’s most trusted kicker—often tasked with converting high-pressure penalties and conversions in tight matches. But her contributions go far beyond kicking. She reads the game exceptionally well, creates space with pinpoint passes, and makes decisive breaks that change the flow of play. Her defensive awareness and communication skills make her equally vital off the ball.
Off the pitch, Scarratt is a respected ambassador for the sport and a vocal advocate for professional pathways in the women’s game. Her longevity, leadership, and humility make her a role model to young players around the world. Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Emily Scarratt stands out not just for her skill, but for the immense impact she continues to have on the global rugby community.
| Primary Position | Centre |
| Major Titles | 1× RWC (2014), 2× RWC Finalist |
8. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe (New Zealand)
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is a generational talent whose name is synonymous with speed, power, and precision in women’s rugby. Hailing from New Zealand, she has become one of the most feared and celebrated finishers the game has ever seen. With over 200 tries combined across Sevens and XVs formats, Woodman’s scoring record is nothing short of phenomenal. Whether playing on the sevens circuit or in a full XVs test, she consistently delivers explosive performances that ignite crowds and dismantle opposition defenses.
Her trophy cabinet includes an Olympic gold medal (2020), a silver (2016), multiple Commonwealth Games titles, and Rugby World Cup victories. What truly sets her apart is her ability to dominate on both ends of the field—blazing past defenders with sheer pace and strength, then returning to make match-saving tackles. Despite battling significant injuries throughout her career, Woodman has come back stronger each time, displaying resilience to match her athletic brilliance.
She has inspired countless young players, especially in the Pacific Island and Māori communities, by breaking barriers and rewriting record books. Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe stands out not only for her incredible stats, but also for redefining what’s possible for a winger in the modern game.
| Primary Position | Wing |
| Major Titles | 1× RWC (2017), Olympic Gold (2020) |
7. Marlie Packer (England)
Marlie Packer is a powerhouse of English rugby—an unrelenting presence in the forward pack whose intensity and commitment set the tone for every match. As one of the most capped players for the Red Roses, Packer has spent more than a decade dominating the breakdown, making crunching tackles, and leading by example. Her work rate is unmatched, consistently topping match stats for tackles made and turnovers won. Whether it’s in open play or set pieces, Packer’s physicality and game sense make her a nightmare for opponents.
In 2023, she captained England to a flawless Six Nations Grand Slam, showcasing not only her skill but also her exceptional leadership qualities. She motivates her teammates with raw passion, fearless play, and unwavering dedication—traits that embody the spirit of elite international rugby.
Off the pitch, Packer is a passionate advocate for the growth of women’s rugby, using her platform to push for better contracts, visibility, and development at grassroots levels. Her authenticity and drive make her a true ambassador of the sport.
Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Marlie Packer earns her place not just through brute strength, but through her consistency, leadership, and lifelong commitment to the game’s evolution.
| Primary Position | Flanker |
| Major Titles | 7× Six Nations, Captain 2023 Grand Slam |
6. Laure Sansus (France)
Laure Sansus, one of France’s most electrifying scrum-halves, left an indelible mark on women’s rugby during her time at the top. Known for her quick decision-making, blistering pace around the ruck, and laser-sharp kicking game, Sansus played with a blend of instinct and intelligence that made her impossible to ignore. She was often the engine behind France’s attacking momentum, using her agility and awareness to manipulate defenses and create space for her teammates.
Her standout performances during the 2022 Women’s Six Nations—where she was named Player of the Championship—cemented her status as one of the best in the world. Sansus was not only a game-breaker with ball in hand but also a reliable leader and strategist, capable of dictating tempo and launching clinical counterattacks.
Unfortunately, her 2021 Rugby World Cup campaign was cut short due to injury, and she announced her retirement shortly after, ending a career that promised even more greatness. Still, her impact was so profound that she remains a celebrated figure in international rugby circles. Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Laure Sansus holds a special place—as a brilliant playmaker who elevated the art of scrum-half play to new heights.
| Primary Position | Scrum-half |
| Major Titles | 2× Six Nations, Player of the Tournament 2022 |
5. Sophie de Goede (Canada)
Sophie de Goede stands as a pillar of excellence in Canadian rugby—calm, strategic, and relentlessly driven. As the captain of Canada’s national women’s team, she brings a rare blend of technical mastery and emotional leadership that sets her apart. Playing at No. 8, de Goede dominates in the tight exchanges and open field alike. Her powerful carries punch holes in defensive lines, while her accuracy in the lineout and poise at the breakdown reflect her high rugby IQ.
What makes Sophie especially remarkable is her ability to inspire and elevate those around her. In a nation where women’s rugby receives significantly less funding than its Tier 1 counterparts, de Goede has been instrumental in keeping Canada a consistent top-four contender. She leads by example—whether it’s a last-ditch tackle, a key turnover, or a rallying halftime speech.
Off the pitch, she’s admired for her professionalism, sportsmanship, and deep understanding of the game. Her performances in premier club competitions like the Premier 15s have further showcased her elite talent on a global stage.
Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Sophie de Goede embodies the perfect mix of strength, intelligence, and leadership—making her one of the brightest and most respected figures in the sport today.
| Primary Position | No. 8 |
| Major Titles | Canada Captain, 4th Place RWC 2021 |
4. Sarah Bern (England)
Sarah Bern is redefining the role of the modern prop in women’s rugby with her rare combination of explosive power, mobility, and technical finesse. Bursting onto the international scene at just 20 years old during the 2017 Rugby World Cup, Bern immediately caught the world’s attention. What separates her from traditional front-row players is her dynamic presence in open play—she’s just as likely to bulldoze through defenders as she is to sprint down the wing for a try.
Bern’s core strength and scrum dominance remain central to England’s pack, but her agility and ball-handling skills allow her to function like an additional back-row forward. She consistently breaks the gain line, supports attacking phases, and anchors defensive stands. Her performances in the Six Nations and Rugby World Cups have proven vital to England’s world-leading consistency.
Off the field, Bern has become a strong advocate for body positivity and inclusivity in sport, challenging outdated stereotypes about women in rugby. Her impact extends far beyond the scoreboard.
Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Sarah Bern holds a unique place—not just for her raw power, but for revolutionizing perceptions of what front-row athletes can achieve in the modern game.
| Primary Position | Prop |
| Major Titles | 5× Six Nations, 2× RWC Finals (2017, 2021) |
3. Ruahei Demant (New Zealand)
Ruahei Demant is one of the most composed and visionary leaders in modern women’s rugby. As the fly-half and captain of the Black Ferns, she guided New Zealand to a dramatic and unforgettable Rugby World Cup triumph in 2021, played on home soil. Her tactical awareness, pinpoint kicking, and ability to dictate the pace of the game were critical to the team’s success, particularly in high-pressure knockout matches. Under her leadership, the Black Ferns played with flair, cohesion, and fearless confidence.
What makes Demant exceptional is her ability to lead with humility and purpose. She doesn’t seek the spotlight but naturally commands it with her calm demeanor and clutch performances. Her journey—from being overlooked early in her career to becoming World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in 2022—is a testament to her resilience, growth, and mental strength.
Off the field, Ruahei is a vocal advocate for Māori representation in rugby, using her platform to promote cultural inclusivity and community empowerment. Her leadership extends beyond sport, inspiring countless young girls across New Zealand and beyond.
Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Ruahei Demant stands out not just for her skill, but for the grace and strength with which she leads.
| Primary Position | Fly-half |
| Major Titles | 1× RWC (2021), POTY 2022 |
2. Zoe Aldcroft (England)
Zoe Aldcroft has emerged as one of the most consistent and intelligent forwards in world rugby. As a towering presence in England’s second row, she has mastered the art of lineout execution, defensive organization, and phase control. Her ability to read the game and disrupt opposition attacks makes her a crucial asset in both set pieces and open play. Aldcroft’s influence is felt in every aspect of the game—whether she’s calling lineouts, securing turnovers, or making dominant tackles that shift momentum.
Voted World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in 2021, Aldcroft has become the quiet engine of the Red Roses’ machine. While others may score the tries, it is often her groundwork—meticulous, physical, and relentless—that lays the foundation. Her performances have been vital in England’s record-breaking win streak and their continued position as the world’s top-ranked team.
Off the field, Zoe is humble, focused, and a team-first leader. Her approachability and professionalism have earned her respect from teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby, Aldcroft symbolizes what it means to be both a technical master and a selfless competitor—delivering match after match with quiet excellence and unwavering purpose.
| Primary Position | Lock |
| Major Titles | 6× Six Nations, POTY 2021 |
1. Sarah Hunter (England)
Topping the list of the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby is none other than Sarah Hunter—England’s most-capped female rugby player and a towering figure in the history of the sport. With 141 international caps over a remarkable 16-year career, Hunter epitomized leadership, consistency, and resilience. As England’s No. 8 and long-time captain, she was the tactical nucleus of the Red Roses, driving the team to numerous Six Nations championships, multiple World Cup finals, and a historic 30-match winning streak.
What truly set Hunter apart was not just her technical ability on the field, but her unwavering leadership off it. She was known for her calm authority, emotional intelligence, and the respect she commanded from players, coaches, and fans around the world. Her play was defined by work ethic, smart positioning, and relentless physicality—never flashy, always effective.
Hunter officially retired in 2023, receiving a heartfelt farewell in front of a home crowd, a moment befitting her monumental impact on the game. Her career helped elevate women’s rugby in England and globally, opening doors for the next generation.
As the standard-bearer for excellence and character, Sarah Hunter’s place at the top of the Top 10 Elite Stars is not only deserved—it’s undisputed.
| Primary Position | No. 8 |
| Major Titles | 10× Six Nations, 1× RWC (2014) |
FAQs
Q1. Who are the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby?
The Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby include iconic athletes like Sarah Hunter, Ruahei Demant, Portia Woodman, and Emily Scarratt—each known for their leadership, speed, and match-winning performances.
Q2. Which player has the most international caps among the Top 10 Elite Stars?
Sarah Hunter of England holds the record among the Top 10 Elite Stars, with 141 international caps before her retirement in 2023.
Q3. Who is the fastest among the Top 10 Elite Stars in women’s rugby?
Portia Woodman is considered the fastest among the Top 10 Elite Stars, with explosive sprint speed and a reputation for scoring long-range tries.
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