Even in defeat, the Wallaroos were left beaming after a rare visit from Royalty left many players speechless as Princess Catherine addressed the players post-match.
The Princess of Wales went into the dressing rooms after their 47-7 defeat to England, which earned the side a place in the knockout stages.
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"For women's sport across the world, it's so fantastic to see crowds like this and stadiums like this," she said in a video captured by the team.
"I am a massive supporter of women's sport, so well done - and good luck for the rest of the tournament."
The squad had plenty of different things to focus on throughout the game, needing to be mindful of their points difference to the USA, but the thoughts of an encounter with Royalty were far from the top of the list.
“We heard a little few whispers after when we were talking to a few of the fans that she was here but it was really special to see her make that effort to come in and kind of make that presence and just express how proud she is of us," flanker Piper Duck told Rugby.com.au.
“It was really cool to see that and show the support that they're showing for not just England, but the whole Women's World Cup as well.
"Seeing people like that in the crowd, I've got family back home texting me saying they were here and yes, it might seem so minute, but it's so not, because they are showing up for women's, not just women's sport, and showing and saying and making a statement that this is something that you should be watching, and we're here and we're proud to support.”
The Prince of Wales, William, was also on hand in Exeter to watch the Welsh team go down to Fiji.
Lock Michaela Leonard believes it solidifies the growth of the women's game, with crowds and big names set only to grow as the tournament progresses into the finals.
“I think it's really special,” Leonard said.
“I think not only having someone like Princess Catherine coming into the room and saying that she was present, she was watching, and having someone of her calibre in the stadium tonight, but I think you've got 30,000 in the crowd…we are drawing people that are interested, and we're having people coming to watch because they love rugby and they love women's rugby.
“Having big names in the crowd has helped, but we're so grateful for everyone that showed up for all the games so far, and we know it's only going to get better as we get into the finals."
