Ireland flanker Erin King made history as she was crowned Breakthrough Player of the Year at the World Rugby Awards in Monaco.
The 21-year-old has made waves with the Ireland 15s since making her debut with Scott Bemand’s side in the autumn, with two tries in the remarkable 29-27 win over New Zealand in September the highlight of a productive Women’s XV1 campaign.
The Wicklow native struck history by becoming the first Irish female player to win an individual award at the annual ceremony.
King has represented the Ireland 7s since 2021 and starred for Team Ireland at last summer’s Paris Olympics before making the switch to play 15s afterwards.
She debuted as a replacement against Australia before also coming off the bench to great effect against the Black Ferns, with her two late tries inspiring Ireland to a memorable victory.
She was subsequently named Player of the Match after another eye-catching performance in the 26-14 win against the USA.
She beat off competition from England’s Maddie Feaunati, Caitlyn Halse of Australia and New Zealand’s Hannah King to win the award.
Elsewhere, Caelan Doris missed out on the men’s Player of the Year award, with South Africa’s Pieter-Steph Du Toit claiming the honour for 2024.
The Leinster and Ireland captain had been shortlisted for the award alongside the Springbok trio of Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe and eventual winner du Toit.
He did earn a place on the Team of the Year, however, with Ireland team-mates Jamison Gibson-Park, James Lowe and Tadhg Beirne also included.