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Sport Nation
FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule'What the bloody heck?': Woodman-Wickliffe stunned by Time magazine honour
Sport Nation • June 11th, 2026 8:54 am
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe | Photo: Photosport
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has garnered her fair share of accolades throughout her legendary career as one of rugby's greatest players, but the Black Ferns great admitted she was left rather speechless after being named in Time magazine's Top 100 most influential people in sport.
Well, almost.
"What the bloody heck?!"
The 34-year-old was included alongside the likes of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James and footballing deity Lionel Messi in the "icons" category of the inaugural list.
Speaking to Sport Nation's Scotty & Izzy on Thursday morning, Woodman-Wickliffe - who had a Barbie doll created in her likeness last year - said finding her name among some of the planet's most prominent sportspeople was another shock to the system.
"It's a bit like the Barbie. You just don't expect it to happen, so when it happens, you're like okay - what does that mean?" she explained.
"I guess, ultimately, it just gives a reflection of the journey I've had and how grateful I am for the people that helped me along the way.
The Black Ferns are the standard for NZ Rugby | Scotty & Izzy
"But to be recognised along with some of the absolute GOATs of international sport; LeBron James, Messi, Ronaldo, Caitlin Clark - all these amazing athletes, I'm just buzzing.
"I looked at the list and I was like, 'why am I on here'?
Widely regarded as the greatest women's player in history, Woodman-Wickliffe hung up her boots last year after a career highlighted by three World Cup wins, two Olympic gold medals and two World Rugby Women's player of the year awards.
Woodman-Wickliffe hoped her achievement can act as a source of inspiration for the very youngest of ambitious Kiwi women's athletes.
"I think it really highlights that we haven't reached the ceiling yet. There are so many more opportunities, so many more ceilings to break through.
"Hopefully it inspires the next, next generation of girls to reach for whatever it is that they want.
"They have so many opportunities right in front of them and it's up to them to take it."
Listen to the full interview below:
