Ponga and Waaka win Golden Boot awards ahead of World Cup finals
The New Zealand pair claimed the international honours before facing Australia in the men's and women's deciders in Brisbane.
Kalyn Ponga and Stacey Waaka have claimed the 2026 Golden Boot awards, giving New Zealand both international player honours before its men's and women's teams meet Australia in the Rugby League World Cup finals in Brisbane.
Ponga won ahead of Australia's Reece Walsh, with the two fullbacks set to face each other in the decider. Rob Toia of Tonga, Francis Manuleleua of Samoa and New Zealand's Casey McLean were also nominated. The awards do not include performances in the finals.
Both winners were recognised during their first tournament representing New Zealand. Ponga broke his forearm during the opening 24-20 defeat by Australia but remained on the field for another 20 minutes, leaving in the 70th minute.
He returned 23 days later and earned player-of-the-match honours as New Zealand beat Tonga 34-10. Ponga said he was proud of his recovery and credited his teammates for the individual award.
Waaka has scored nine tries across four World Cup appearances at centre. The Warriors player previously won sevens gold at two Olympic Games, one Commonwealth Games and one World Cup, as well as two World Cup titles in 15-a-side rugby union.
An on-stage haka brought Waaka to tears. She said receiving the tribute, rather than performing it herself, was special and reflected the players' respect for both award winners.
