New Zealand's Olsen-Baker named women's rugby player of the year

New Zealand back-row forward Kaipo Olsen-Baker has been named women's player of the year, while her Black Ferns teammate Elinor-Plum King has picked up the breakthrough player award, World Rugby announced on Saturday.

Both players received their awards following the Black Ferns' 36-7 victory over France in Christchurch during the sixth and final round of the WXV Global Series.

"Congratulations to Kaipo and Elinor-Plum on these thoroughly deserved awards," World Rugby chair Brett Robinson said.

The best in the world 🌍 Congratulations to Kaipo Olsen-Baker, Women's 15s Player of the Year. #WorldRugbyAwards | @BlackFerns https://t.co/d8bj9CnvCb — World Rugby (@WorldRugby) October 31, 2026

"Kaipo's consistency and influence have been outstanding throughout 2026, while Elinor-Plum has made a remarkable impression in her first year."

Olsen-Baker, 24, saw off Zoe Harrison and Megan Jones of England, as well as Canadian DaLeaka Menin, to claim the accolade.

Her fellow New Zealand back-rower King, 22, was rewarded for her fine debut season on the international stage, beating off France's Pauline Barrat, Australian Amelia Whitaker and Bella Vogel of the USA for the award.

The try of the year winner and the women's team of the year will be announced on Monday, World Rugby said.