Ruby Tui, a key figure in New Zealand Rugby, has re-signed with the Black Ferns for two more years, solidifying her commitment to the team.
Tui confirmed her re-signing with NZ Rugby while also announcing that she would be taking an immediate sabbatical. The duration of her break from rugby remains unclear, but she is expected to discuss her plans on The Breakdown show this Sunday.
Tui has been a driving force behind the Black Ferns’ recent successes, including their impressive Rugby World Cup campaign. A versatile player excelling in both Sevens and 15s games, Tui has become a symbol of the hard-won progress and prominence achieved by the Black Ferns.
Her decision to extend her contract comes as a significant victory for New Zealand Rugby, which is facing increasing competition for top talent from teams across the world.
Under the new contract, Tui is expected to represent the Black Ferns in the upcoming Rugby World Cup, scheduled for 2025 in England, which is expected to see continued growth in popularity with women’s rugby in the northern hemisphere gaining momentum, with almost 60,000 fans attending a recent Six Nations match between England and France.
New Zealand Rugby is currently in talks with World Rugby about the possibility of hosting the WXV competition – an exciting new global competition for women’s rugby later this year, bringing powerhouse teams, including England and France, to New Zealand.
