A massive year for breakout Wallaroo speedster Amelia Whitaker has been recognised on the global stage, the 20-year-old being included among the nominees for the World Rugby Women’s XVs Breakthrough Player of the Year for 2026.
Making her debut against England in Salford to start the WXV Global Series, Whitaker hit the ground running in gold, scoring three tries in five games.
The Australian already had a massive year on the domestic front, impressing in both the Next Gen 7s tournament and in the 2026 Super Rugby Women’s season, helping the NSW Waratahs secure their seventh title with two tries in the grand final.
The niece of former Wallabies and Waratahs legend Chris Whitaker, the winger quickly established herself as a player to watch in the women’s game, scoring a double against Scotland at Accor Stadium during Sydney’s quadruple header.
Whitaker is among only four players worldwide to be nominated in the category, going up against the likes of Pauline Barrat (France), Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand) and Bella Vogel (USA).
“The Women's XVs Breakthrough Player of the Year award celebrates emerging talents who have made an outstanding impact on the international stage in their debut year and demonstrated their potential to shape the future of the game,” World Rugby said following the unveiling of the shortlist.
“An exciting attacking talent, Whitaker has made her mark on the international stage with her pace, finishing ability and willingness to take on defenders.
“The Wallaroos winger has continued to grow in confidence throughout the WXV Global Series, including crossing for a try against Scotland.”
World Rugby also unveiled the nominees for the other prestigious award in the women’s game, the Women's XVs Player of the Year 2026, with an additional fan vote for the IRPA Women's XVs Try of the Year 2026, with voting closing on Wednesday, 28th October 2026.
The nominees for the Player of the Year are Zoe Harrison (England), Megan Jones (England), DaLeaka Menin (Canada) and Kaipo Olsen-Baker (New Zealand).
The winners of both awards will be revealed this weekend, with trophies presented following the players' final WXV Global Series matches.
“The quality of this year's nominees is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and ambition driving women's rugby forward,” World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said.
“From established international stars to exciting emerging players, each has made an outstanding contribution to the game in 2026.
“As women's rugby continues to grow and reach new audiences around the world, it is important that we recognise the players whose performances inspire fans and the next generation.
“I congratulate all our nominees on their achievements and look forward to celebrating the very best of our sport through this year's awards.”
- Zoe Harrison (England)
- Megan Jones (England)
- DaLeaka Menin (Canada)
- Kaipo Olsen-Baker (New Zealand)
- Pauline Barrat (France)
- Elinor-Plum King (New Zealand)
- Amelia Whitaker (Australia)
- Bella Vogel (USA)
- Léa Champon – France, v Scotland, Women's Six Nations, 9 May
- Pauline Bourdon Sansus – France, v England, Women's Six Nations, 17 May
- Abi Burton – England, v Australia, WXV Global Series, 12 September
- Olivia Apps – Canada, v England, WXV Global Series, 19 September
