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Ellie Kildunne: Red Roses Set to Rewrite Rugby World Cup Narrative

England’s full-back and recent World Player of the Year, Ellie Kildunne, expressed optimism about the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup, emphasizing the team’s chance to transform their past disappointments into a compelling narrative of success. In an interview with Sky Sports, Kildunne acknowledged the pivotal moment awaiting the Red Roses on home turf, highlighting the current period as a “golden age for women’s sport.”

The Red Roses have reached the finals of the last two Women’s Rugby World Cups, only to face defeats at the hands of New Zealand. In 2017, the Black Ferns edged out England in a closely contested match, winning 41-32 in Belfast. The 2021 final, held in 2022 due to the pandemic, saw England as favorites but ended in a surprising 34-31 loss at Eden Park.

This year, from August 22 to September 27, England will host the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time since 2010, and Kildunne is determined to transform their previous heartbreak into a story worth celebrating.

“The final in 2022 was truly heartbreaking, but we left everything on that field,” she reflected. “We didn’t hold back, and we’ve learned many lessons since then. With new coaches and fresh talent, our squad has evolved, and we have managed to defeat New Zealand on several occasions in the past.”

Kildunne maintains that revenge is not the team’s focus; rather, it’s about reshaping their World Cup experience. “It’s not about seeking revenge; it’s about crafting our own story. The joy of celebrating with thousands of fans will far surpass any moment with just a few opposing players,” she stated. “I aim to set a goal that pushes the boundaries of my imagination during this World Cup. The outcome is uncertain, but I hope it surpasses what I envision.”

A victorious World Cup would resonate beyond just the sport, Kildunne believes. “We’re in a remarkable time for women’s sport,” she continued. “The Lionesses’ success at the Euros exemplifies what can be achieved and how it galvanizes the broader female sporting community.”

She recalled a memorable match against France at Twickenham in 2023, where a record crowd of over 50,000 supporters brought a palpable energy to the event. “Whether we win or lose, it’s about making an impact and inspiring a generation far beyond what we can currently imagine,” Kildunne added.

World Player of the Year: A Year of Highs

In December, Kildunne earned the title of World Player of the Year, highlighting her remarkable performances for England. The Red Roses recently secured another Six Nations Grand Slam, with Kildunne emerging as the tournament’s top try-scorer with nine tries. She also represented Great Britain in the Summer Olympics in Paris, marking a significant year in her career.

“Every moment of this year felt like a highlight,” she expressed. “From a successful Six Nations campaign to the camaraderie and spirit within our team, it was truly remarkable. The genuine love for our game and the bond we share has been a standout experience.”

“Participating in the Olympics was an incredible opportunity,” she reflected. “Looking ahead to the World Cup, we recognize that teams elevate their performance for major tournaments. We understand the road to the finals will be arduous and requires intense training and determination.”

“While I believe in our abilities, we must remain focused and prepare ourselves meticulously for the challenges ahead. It’s all about honing the one percent that can make a difference and positioning ourselves to reach that final.”

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