Who are the Top 10 Richest Female Rugby Players in 2026?
Women’s rugby has grown rapidly in popularity and commercial value over the last decade. Increased media coverage, global tournaments, professional club leagues, endorsement deals, and social media influence have all helped top female rugby players expand their earnings beyond traditional salaries. Although women’s rugby salaries are still developing compared with men’s rugby or global sports like tennis and football, a number of players have created significant wealth through a blend of sport earnings, long-term contracts, international appearances, and strong personal brands.
In this comprehensive list, we explore the Top 10 richest female rugby players in the world in 2026, where they come from, and what their approximate net worth is. This list is unique content written for SEO and based on insights into player reach, sponsorship opportunities, and known highest-earning data where available.
1. Ilona Maher — United States
Estimated Net Worth: ~$8.5 Million
At the top of our list is Ilona Maher from the United States, a star in rugby sevens who has become one of the most commercially successful female players globally. Maher’s popularity stretches far beyond the field thanks to her massive social media following — over 9 million combined followers across platforms — and widespread brand partnerships. Her off-field earnings from endorsements with major brands such as Adidas and Coppertone are believed to dwarf her on-field salary, positioning her as arguably the richest female rugby player in the world as of 2026.
Maher’s unique appeal comes from blending elite sport with mainstream celebrity status, a profile uncommon in rugby. She has also modeled for merchandise and interactive pop culture products, further boosting her revenue streams.
Country: United States
Net Worth: ~$8.5 Million
2. Portia Woodman-Wickliffe — New Zealand
Estimated Net Worth: ~$3.2 Million
From the powerhouse rugby nation of New Zealand comes Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, one of the most recognizable names in women’s rugby worldwide. A double Rugby World Cup winner and Olympic medalist, Woodman-Wickliffe’s high-impact play on the wing has made her a standout athlete with significant earning potential.
In New Zealand and internationally, elite players like Woodman-Wickliffe secure contracts with professional clubs and national unions, plus opportunities for sponsorships and community partnerships that contribute to her net worth.
Country: New Zealand
Net Worth: ~$3.2 Million
3. Sophie de Goede — Canada
Estimated Net Worth: ~$3 Million
Canadian rugby captain Sophie de Goede has risen to prominence through her leadership on the international stage and club success in global competitions. Recognized as one of the world’s best players, de Goede combines strong performance with ambassadorial roles that enhance her visibility and income.
Her net worth reflects not only match earnings and national contracts but also growing media and sponsorship engagement in key markets such as North America and Europe.
Country: Canada
Net Worth: ~$3 Million
4. Emily Scarratt — England
Estimated Net Worth: ~$2.8 Million
One of the most experienced players in women’s rugby, Emily Scarratt has worn the England jersey dozens of times and is widely respected for her playmaking skills. While rugby union salaries in England are still developing relative to other sports, players with Scarratt’s longevity often find additional revenue through coaching clinics, appearance fees, and long-term brand relationships.
Scarratt’s career includes numerous championships and key international wins, making her not only a legend of the sport but also one of its wealthiest female figures.
Country: England
Net Worth: ~$2.8 Million
5. Ellie Kildunne — England
Estimated Net Worth: ~$2.5 Million
Rising star Ellie Kildunne has become one of the most exciting talents in the women’s game. Her explosive performance — including World Cup wins and major tournament accolades — has accelerated her marketability and appeal.
Though still early in her career compared to some contemporaries, Kildunne’s combination of elite play and media visibility suggests expanding earning opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
Country: England
Net Worth: ~$2.5 Million
6. Michaela Blyde — New Zealand
Estimated Net Worth: ~$2.3 Million
Michaela Blyde, a celebrated New Zealand sevens specialist and double Olympic gold medalist, has translated her on-field dominance into a strong personal brand. Her global recognition and leadership in the high-visibility sevens circuit contribute to her financial success.
Blyde’s net worth is a result of professional contracts, tournament prizes, and sevens circuit exposure — one of the most commercially valuable segments of rugby today.
Country: New Zealand
Net Worth: ~$2.3 Million
7. Jessy Trémoulière — France
Estimated Net Worth: ~$2.0 Million
France has a deep history in women’s rugby, and Jessy Trémoulière stands out as one of its most successful exports. As a versatile back with accolades in both Europe and World Cups, she has opportunities not only through club play but also through European sponsorships and partnerships.
Trémoulière’s financial position is bolstered by rugby’s growing profile in France and Europe, and opportunities to represent brands in markets where women’s rugby continues gaining traction.
Country: France
Net Worth: ~$2.0 Million
8. Ruby Tui — New Zealand
Estimated Net Worth: ~$1.9 Million
Ruby Tui is a dynamic player and inspirational leader whose influence extends beyond New Zealand’s sevens and fifteens programs. Her popularity — especially among younger fans — has translated into media appearances, speaking engagements, and brand collaborations that strengthen her overall earnings.
Tui’s impact on and off the field makes her one of the key figures in modern women’s rugby and a strong financial performer among her peers.
Country: New Zealand
Net Worth: ~$1.9 Million
9. Marlie Packer — England
Estimated Net Worth: ~$1.8 Million
Veteran English flanker Marlie Packer has been a cornerstone of England’s national team, known for gritty performances and championship leadership. Over her long career, Packer has earned consistent contracts, match fees, and wider recognition that support her place among rugby’s wealthier women.
Her roles in leadership, mentorship, and rugby advocacy also create avenues for income beyond typical player pay.
Country: England
Net Worth: ~$1.8 Million
10. Niamh Briggs — Ireland
Estimated Net Worth: ~$1.6 Million
Rounding out our top 10 is Niamh Briggs of Ireland, a former captain and influential figure in European women’s rugby. While Ireland’s domestic rugby revenues are smaller than those of England or New Zealand, high-profile players like Briggs benefit from coaching roles, media work, and sponsorships that elevate their net worth.
Briggs’s contributions as a figurehead in Irish rugby and ambassador roles enhance her overall commercial profile.
Country: Ireland
Net Worth: ~$1.6 Million
How These Players Built Wealth
It’s important to understand the evolving nature of earnings in women’s rugby. Unlike some male sports where salaries alone can generate high net worth, female rugby players often build wealth through a mix of:
1. National Contracts
Professional contracts with national teams offer base salaries and bonuses tied to appearances and performance in major events like the Rugby World Cup.
2. Club Rugby Salaries
In countries with structured professional women’s leagues — such as England’s Premier 15s and New Zealand’s domestic competitions — players may earn retainers and match fees that supplement national pay.
3. Endorsements & Sponsorship Deals
Top athletes often secure external brand partnerships with lifestyle, athletic, tech, and wellness companies. These deals can significantly outpace on-field earnings, especially for players with international visibility and social media followings — like Ilona Maher.
4. Media & Appearances
Players with strong personalities often engage in media projects, TV appearances, speaking engagements, and ambassador roles that further diversify their income.
5. Social Media & Personal Branding
A large digital audience can lead to paid content opportunities, partnerships, and unique collaborations that expand beyond traditional sponsorship structures.
The Growth of Women’s Rugby Wealth
The women’s rugby landscape has changed dramatically in the past decade, creating opportunities for athletes to expand their financial success through sport and influence. While traditional club and international contracts remain the foundation, the most financially successful players today leverage personal brand power, media presence, and global reach to amplify their net worth.
From Ilona Maher’s breakout commercial success in the United States to the seasoned careers of players like Emily Scarratt and Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, this list reflects a growing ecosystem where female athletes can thrive both on and off the pitch.
As professional leagues continue to mature and global interest in women’s rugby expands, future rankings of wealthy players will likely see even larger figures and a broader diversity of countries — signaling a vibrant era for women in sport.