Rugby Comebacks: 7 Players Who Un-Retired
- Several rugby players, including Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, have stunned fans by returning to the pitch after announcing their retirement.
- Woodman-Wickliffe, a decorated New Zealand winger, initially retired after the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she helped her team secure a gold medal.
- "Each week in campaign I thought about the possibility of how I could possibly go to the World Cup more and more," Woodman-Wickliffe said.
discover the compelling stories of rugby legends making remarkable comebacks in this exclusive report from News Directory 3. Witness how stars like portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Victor Matfield defied retirement,reigniting their careers and captivating fans worldwide. These rugby players, driven by an unwavering passion for the sport, returned to the pitch, showcasing their enduring talent and competitive spirit. From World Cup victories to Super Rugby titles, their comeback journeys are nothing short of inspiring.We delve into the motivations behind their decisions,the challenges they overcame,and the impact their returns have had on the game. Read about Woodman-Wickliffe’s return for the 2025 World Cup. Find out what is next.
Rugby Stars Make Comebacks After Retirement
Updated June 16, 2025
Several rugby players, including Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, have stunned fans by returning to the pitch after announcing their retirement. These athletes, driven by passion and competitive spirit, have proven that retirement doesn’t always mean the end of a career.
Woodman-Wickliffe, a decorated New Zealand winger, initially retired after the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she helped her team secure a gold medal. Her resume includes two Olympic golds, a Commonwealth Games gold, two Rugby World Cup sevens titles, and two Women’s Rugby World Cup victories.However, she recently signed with the Blue Women and decided to compete in the 2025 Women’s Rugby world Cup in England.
“Each week in campaign I thought about the possibility of how I could possibly go to the World Cup more and more,” Woodman-Wickliffe said. “I thought about what it would mean to me but most importantly my whanau [family]. I needed time to process everything and making myself available for this team is where I’ve landed.”
Victor Matfield, a South African legend, also returned to rugby after a two-year hiatus. He initially retired after the 2011 Rugby World Cup, boasting 110 Test caps, three super Rugby titles, and a 2007 Rugby World Cup winners medal. He was lured back by the blue Bulls.
What’s next
As the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup approaches, fans eagerly anticipate Woodman-Wickliffe’s return. Her comeback highlights the enduring allure of the game and the possibility of achieving even more after retirement.