Paris, August 6, 2024 — New Zealand’s women’s rugby sevens team clinched their second consecutive Olympic gold medal on Tuesday, defeating Canada 19-12 in a thrilling final at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The victory solidifies their dominance in the sport, following their triumph at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Games in 2021.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN Sports Scene’s Greg Laffradi, team co-captains Risi Pouri-Lane and Michaela Blyde expressed their elation over retaining the gold and reflected on the challenges faced en route to the podium.
Rising to the Challenge
Stepping into a leadership role for the first time, Pouri-Lane shared how she managed the pressures of co-captaining at such a pivotal moment. "It’s a huge role at a young age during a crucial time in our careers, preparing for the Olympic Games," she said. "But with the support of the team, we focused on the one-percenters that make the difference."
Blyde commended her teammate’s resilience, especially after veteran captain Sarah Hirini tore her anterior cruciate ligament in December. "We had to really get behind Risi and support her. She stepped into some very big shoes and did an incredible job," Blyde noted.
The Physical Toll of the Game
The intense physicality of rugby sevens was evident on the players, with bruises and scars serving as testament to their dedication. "That’s the nature of the game," Blyde stated. "When you think of what you’ve got to do on the field, it’s about who can be mentally and physically the toughest."
Recognizing China’s Potential
New Zealand faced China in the quarterfinals, securing a 55-5 victory. Despite the decisive scoreline, both Pouri-Lane and Blyde were quick to acknowledge the burgeoning talent within the Chinese team.
"The score definitely doesn’t reflect the skill and natural talent they possess," Pouri-Lane remarked. "They made us work for that win. Give them a few years on the World Series, and they’ll definitely be a very competitive team."
China’s sixth-place finish marks their best-ever Olympic performance in women’s rugby sevens, signaling a promising future for the sport in the region.
A Look Ahead
As the global landscape of women’s rugby sevens evolves, New Zealand’s champions remain humble and forward-focused. "We’re excited to see how teams like China continue their growth," Blyde said. "It’s good for the sport, and it pushes us all to elevate our game."
The acknowledgment of emerging talent from teams like China underscores the increasing competitiveness of women’s rugby sevens on the world stage, setting the scene for even more thrilling encounters in future tournaments.
Reference(s):
Olympic women's rugby sevens champs New Zealand see potential in China
cgtn.com
