Image caption, Kaipo Olsen-Baker helped New Zealand win this year's Pacific Four Series - a competition also involving Canada, Australia and the United States Published 10 minutes ago New Zealand number eight Kaipo Olsen-Baker has been named World Rugby Women's Player of the Year.
The 24-year-old, a powerful ball carrier, beat Canada's DaLeaka Menin and England duo Megan Jones and Zoe Harrison to the award.
Olsen-Baker was a standout performer for a resurgent Black Ferns side, who suffered only one defeat this year under new head coach Whitney Hansen - a 26-19 loss against England in September.
Canada lock Sophie de Goede won the award last year, with England full-back Ellie Kildunne picking it up in 2024.
New Zealand flanker Elinor-Plum King won World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year.
The 22-year-old scored three Test tries in her debut Black Ferns season.
"Kaipo's consistency and influence have been outstanding throughout 2026, while Elinor-Plum has made a remarkable impression in her first year on the international stage," World Rugby chair Brett Robinson said.
