English rugby star Ellie Kildunne has been recognised as the World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year 2025, a distinction that highlights her outstanding performances and consistent impact at the highest level of the sport.
Over recent seasons, Kildunne has established herself as one of the most influential players in international rugby. Known for her pace, attacking awareness and defensive reliability, she has become a central figure for both club and country, delivering decisive performances in major competitions.
Since making her international debut in 2017, Kildunne has been a regular presence in the England squad, contributing tries and leadership across multiple Six Nations campaigns and global tournaments. Her development mirrors the rise of women’s rugby in England, where she is now regarded as one of the sport’s leading figures.
This individual award underlines England’s continued strength in women’s rugby and confirms Kildunne’s status as one of the defining players of her generation.
Career history and achievements
Teams played for
- Keighley Albion (rugby league, youth level)
- Keighley RUFC
- West Park Leeds
- Castleford
- Gloucester-Hartpury (2017–2018)
- Wasps Women (2020–2021)
- Harlequins Women (2021–present)
- England Women’s National Team (from 2017)
- England Women’s Sevens (2018–2020)
- Great Britain Women’s Sevens (from 2024)
Rugby World Cups
- Women’s Rugby World Cup 2021 (played in 2022): runner-up with England
- Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025: world champion with England, scoring the opening try in the final
Awards and honours
- World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year (2024)
- Women’s Rugby World Cup winner (2025)
- Top try scorer in the 2024 Women’s Six Nations
- Multiple Player of the Match awards in Six Nations competition
- MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire)
- Runner-up, BBC Sports Personality of the Year (2025)