The Breakdown | Every World Cup match felt like a celebration of women's rugby the breakthrough we've dreamed of

"A turning point, a line in the sand, a pivotal moment. Whatever you want to call it, this Rugby World Cup, and the final in particular, is a point women's rugby won't be turning back from. The showpiece at a sold-out Twickenham was a moment decades in the making, a long-held dream for so many in the sport. This summer has been unbelievable."

"The sight of thousands of fans in the stands, and not only for the England games, was just what the game needed. People travelled from abroad to support their nations but local communities also turned out for all 16 teams, which led Ruahei Demant, the New Zealand co-captain, to call England world-leading in supporting women's sport. Every match also felt like a celebration of the game, whether that was down to players being applauded off their coaches, a fan at Twickenham saying we're all community here or young supporters getting photos with their idols such as Australia's Desiree Miller."

Women's rugby reached an irreversible turning point after the Rugby World Cup final at a sold-out Twickenham, driven by unprecedented attendance and visibility. Fans travelled internationally while local communities supported all 16 teams, prompting praise from Ruahei Demant for England's backing of women's sport. Every match felt celebratory, with players applauded off their coaches and young supporters taking photos with role models. Players such as Ellie Kildunne and Meg Jones became household names. Coaches like Tony Christie and John Mitchell showed warmth and respect, and athletes were generous with time and stories. The tournament created momentum and recognition that signals there is no turning back.

Read at www.theguardian.com