In a dazzling display of skill and athleticism, Australian rugby sevens sensation Maddison Levi has etched her name into the record books, powering her team to an unforgettable victory at the Dubai Sevens tournament. The 22-year-old’s incredible 15-try haul not only shattered the previous record set by New Zealand’s Portia Woodman but also played a pivotal role in securing Australia’s fifth consecutive title in Dubai.
A Star on the Rise
Maddison Levi’s meteoric rise in the world of rugby sevens has been nothing short of spectacular. The young Australian’s electrifying speed, agility, and raw talent have earned her the moniker of rugby’s “cheat code” from Wallabies great Matt Giteau. Levi’s awe-inspiring performances have left spectators and opponents alike in disbelief, as she consistently showcases her ability to turn a match on its head with a single moment of brilliance.
Record-Breaking Weekend
Levi’s record-breaking weekend began with a hat trick against China, followed by a staggering four tries against Fiji and two more against Ireland on the opening day of the tournament. The unstoppable Aussie continued her rampage in the quarterfinals, notching another treble against Canada, the team that had stunned Australia in the Olympic semifinals just months earlier.
In the semifinals, Levi added two more tries to her tally as Australia comfortably dispatched Great Britain 35-7. However, it was in the thrilling final against Olympic champions New Zealand where Levi truly shone. With her team trailing 24-21 and just three minutes remaining on the clock, the young star intercepted a stray pass near her own try line and sprinted the length of the field to score the match-winning try, sending the Australian bench and fans into raptures.
A Team Effort
While Levi’s individual brilliance stole the headlines, Australia’s triumph in Dubai was undoubtedly a team effort. New captain Bella Nasser led by example, scoring a crucial try just before halftime in the final, while Faith Nathan contributed seven tries throughout the tournament. The ever-reliable Charlotte Caslick, who relinquished the captaincy as part of a post-Olympic reshuffle, made a vital turnover in the dying seconds of the final to seal the victory for her team.
I think every year we roll out more and more young girls and it shows the depth of our program.
Charlotte Caslick
Bouncing Back from Olympic Disappointment
Australia’s emphatic win in Dubai served as a powerful statement of intent, particularly in the wake of their disappointing Olympic campaign in Paris. The pre-tournament favorites had left the French capital empty-handed, failing to secure even a bronze medal. However, under the guidance of coach Tim Walsh and the leadership of Nasser, the Australians have bounced back in spectacular fashion, reminding the rugby sevens world of their enduring class and determination.
The Road Ahead
As the dust settles on a memorable weekend in Dubai, attention now turns to the remainder of the World Series season. With Maddison Levi in scintillating form and a deep, talented squad at his disposal, Tim Walsh will be confident that his team can maintain their winning momentum and challenge for the overall title.
For Levi, the sky appears to be the limit. With 167 tries already to her name in the World Series, the young star looks set to eclipse Portia Woodman’s all-time record of 256 tries sooner rather than later. As her star continues to rise, rugby sevens fans around the globe will undoubtedly be treated to many more moments of magic from this extraordinary talent.
In a sport where split-second decisions and individual brilliance can often prove the difference between victory and defeat, Maddison Levi’s record-breaking exploits in Dubai have firmly established her as one of the most exciting and influential players in the game today. As Australia looks to build on their success and maintain their position at the pinnacle of women’s rugby sevens, Levi’s presence will undoubtedly be central to their aspirations, both in the short and long term.
