2026 Rugby League World Cup Golden Boot awards, Digi Mart USA News: New Zealand’s Kalyn Ponga has won the Golden Boot trophy, beating out Australia’s Reece Walsh for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup’s top honours on Thursday night.
It was a New Zealand sweep, as Kiwi Ferns’ Stacey Waaka was named the women’s Golden Boot winner after her incredible debut for the national team, where she scored nine tries over four matches.
The timing of the awards night has drawn scrutiny, as the Golden Boot, a prestigious award that rewards the best player in international rugby league, was handed out before the RLWC grand final on Sunday.
Many believed Kangaroos player Walsh should have been rewarded for his stellar run as Australia’s fullback, as he played in three of Australia’s four games. Walsh was the favourite for the trophy.
In his World Cup debut for New Zealand, Ponga was limited in game time after being injured in the first group stage match, playing only twice for the Kiwis for a total of 150 minutes. He returned just three weeks after breaking his arm against Australia in the first game of the event to play in the semi-final against Tonga.
The shortlist also featured Tonga’s Robert Toia, Samoa’s Francis Manuleleua and fellow New Zealander Casey McLean. The Golden Boot has focused solely on international performances since 2018, giving players a limited window to impress judges.
Recent winners include Harry Grant, Isaah Yeo and Joseph Manu.
Both Golden Boot winners will be in action for New Zealand’s men’s and women’s sides when they take on Australia in Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium in the RLWC finals.
