women
international women
Black Ferns pair Kaipo Olsen-Baker and Elinor-Plum King have won top honors at the World Rugby Awards.
Olsen-Baker was named the 2026 World Rugby U15 Player of the Year, while King was named the World Rugby U15 Player of the Year.
It’s been a mesmerizing year for the Black Ferns, who have won all but one of their 10 Test matches in Whitney Hansen’s first year as head coach.
The pair received their rewards in full time of their – victory France in Christchurch at the conclusion of the WXV Global Series.
The 24-year-old Olsen-Baker in the back row has been a force all year. In the WXV Global Series, she ranks in the top 5% of meters worn by the number 8, and has more attempted assists than any other player in her position.
She beat England’s Meg Jones and Zoe Harrison, as well as Canada’s DaLeaka Menin.
King, meanwhile, enjoyed a dominant first year in the Black Ferns’ back row. Olsen-Baker’s Matatu teammate in Super Rugby Aupiki, King made her Test debut in the second Laurie O’Reilly Cup clash of the year at the end of August.
The winger’s high-energy and intense approach to the game set her apart. The 22-year-old was nominated alongside France’s Pauline Barrat, Australia’s Amelia Whitaker and Bella Vogel from the USA.
Brett Robinson, chairman of World Rugby, said: “Congratulations to Kaip and Elinor-Plum on these well-deserved awards. Kaip’s consistency and impact have been outstanding throughout 2026, while Elinor-Plum has made a remarkable impression in her first year on the international stage.
“Seeing both players recognized in front of their home fans in Christchurch makes this occasion even more special.
“Their achievements reflect the exceptional talent and ambition that drives women’s rugby forward. As the game continues to grow around the world, players like Kaipo and Elinor-Plum are raising the bar and inspiring the next generation.”
The Women’s Rugby World Awards will conclude on Monday when the International Rugby Players Association’s 15-year-old Try of the Year and World Rugby Women’s Dream Team of the Year are announced.
