PARIS (AP) — In a thrilling climax to the women’s rugby sevens tournament, the American team captured the bronze medal with a dramatic last-second try that stunned Australia. The final score of 14-12 at the Paris Olympics marked a historic achievement for U.S. rugby, clinching their first Olympic medal in the sport since 1924.
With the clock winding down and the U.S. trailing 12-7, Olympic newcomer Alex Sedrick delivered a moment of magic. Receiving the ball deep in American territory, Sedrick broke through Australia’s defense with a powerful stiff arm and sprinted the length of the field. Her try, converted from under the posts, secured the victory and sent the American bench into jubilation.
The match had started with a strong performance from Australia’s Maddison Levi, who scored her 13th try of the Games to give Australia a 7-0 lead. Levi’s impressive tournament tally was the highest in a single Olympic Games. Despite being down a player due to a high tackle carded against Teagan Levi, the U.S. mounted a resilient challenge.
Kayla Cornett nearly leveled the score with a potential try, but a crucial tackle by Faith Nathan prevented it. The U.S. capitalized on the man advantage when Alev Kelter powered through to score and convert her try, tying the game 7-7 by halftime.
In the second half, Australia briefly threatened Levi’s dangerous run, but a crucial knock-on by Sariah Paki halted their progress. The U.S. defense held firm until a scrum penalty gave Australia one last opportunity. Maddison Levi seized the chance to cross the try line again, pushing Australia ahead 12-7.
Facing a narrow deficit with less than a minute left, the Americans executed a bold strategy. Ariana Ramsey’s deep kick-off set up Sedrick for a spectacular solo effort. Her try, and the subsequent successful conversion, capped off a remarkable comeback and secured the bronze medal for the U.S.
This victory is not only a historic first for U.S. rugby sevens but also marks the first Olympic medal in any form of rugby for the country since the men’s team won gold in 1924. Head coach Emilie Bydwell made history as the first female rugby head coach to lead a team to an Olympic medal.
Post-match, Ilona Maher reflected on the significance of the win, expressing hope that it would inspire greater investment and interest in American rugby. “I hope it means we get more games in stadiums like this, that we get more money and funding for the women’s game. We deserve it. We need more girls in the US trying rugby and seeing what it can do for them,” Maher said.
As the Olympic spotlight shifts towards Los Angeles 2028, the U.S. women’s rugby sevens team will look to build on this historic success and further elevate the sport’s profile in America.
