The 2025 Rugby Sevens World Championship concluded with thrilling victories for South Africa’s Blitzboks and New Zealand’s Black Ferns in Los Angeles on Sunday. Held at Dignity Health Sports Park, the season-ending event was not only a showcase of world-class rugby but also served as a preview for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where rugby sevens will be a major event.
Blitzboks Triumph in the Men’s Final
South Africa’s Blitzboks emerged victorious in the men’s final, defeating Spain 19-5 to capture the Rugby Sevens World Series title. After an impressive series of performances throughout the season, the Blitzboks capped their campaign with a dominant display in the final. Selvyn Davids opened the scoring with a try in the fifth minute, and Ronald Brown’s conversion gave South Africa a 7-0 lead at the break.
Spain fought back in the second half with a try from Pol Pla, but Juan Ramos’ missed conversion kept the Springboks ahead. Mfundo Ndhlovu extended the lead with a try, and Tristan Leyds’ successful conversion put South Africa in control at 14-5. Despite a yellow card for Zander Reynders late in the match, Ricardo Duartee sealed the victory with a try in the final minute, ensuring the Blitzboks finished on top.
Argentina, who had claimed the men’s World Sevens Series standings with wins in Perth, Vancouver, and Hong Kong, were eliminated in the semi-finals by Spain with a 29-5 defeat. Meanwhile, South Africa dispatched New Zealand 31-5 in their semi-final matchup to secure their place in the final.
Black Ferns Dominate in the Women’s Final
On the women’s side, New Zealand’s Black Ferns extended their remarkable season with a 31-7 victory over Australia in the final. Already crowned champions of the Rugby Sevens World Series after their victory in Singapore in April, the Black Ferns added the World Championship title to their growing collection.
The Black Ferns’ dominance was evident early on as Jorja Miller crossed for a try in the second minute. Michaela Brake added another try in the sixth minute, and with Risi Pouri-Lane’s conversion, New Zealand led 12-0 at halftime. Australia’s Mackenzie Davis responded with a try in the eighth minute, but the Kiwis quickly answered through Pouri-Lane’s try and successful conversion in the 10th minute, stretching the lead to 19-7.
Mahina Paul further extended New Zealand’s advantage with a try in the 11th minute, and Pouri-Lane’s conversion made it 26-7. Sarah Hirini then capped the win with another try in the 13th minute, making the final score 31-7. In the women’s semi-finals, New Zealand dominated the United States 34-7, while Australia breezed past Canada with a 33-7 win.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Rugby Sevens
Both South Africa and New Zealand’s victories in Los Angeles demonstrate their dominance in the rugby sevens landscape as they prepare for future challenges, including the 2028 Olympics. The LA event, held at Dignity Health Sports Park, marked an exciting milestone for the sport as it continues to grow in popularity, drawing attention to the high-speed, thrilling action that has captivated rugby fans around the world.
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