The USA Sevens rugby tournament delivered an action-packed weekend of world-class competition, further cementing rugby’s growing presence in the United States. Held at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the annual event, part of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, brought together 16 international teams and thousands of enthusiastic fans eager to witness the sport’s electrifying pace and intensity.
Team USA’s Strong Showing on Home Soil
Team USA entered the tournament determined to make an impact, and they did just that with an impressive run through the group stage. Led by standout performances from veterans like Perry Baker and rising star Malacchi Esdale, the Eagles secured commanding wins over powerhouses like Australia and France, thrilling the home crowd.
The quarterfinal clash against England saw the U.S. team showcase their speed and defensive grit, outpacing their European rivals in a 24-10 victory. The performance set the stage for a highly anticipated semifinal showdown against Fiji, a team known for its dominance in sevens rugby.
Heartbreak in the Semifinals
The semifinal matchup against Fiji proved to be one of the most intense battles of the weekend. Team USA started strong, using quick passing and explosive runs to take an early lead. However, Fiji’s experience and tactical precision came into play in the second half, as they mounted a dramatic comeback to secure a 21-19 victory in the closing moments of the match.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Eagles’ deep tournament run underscored the growing strength of American rugby. Fans erupted in support, demonstrating the increasing enthusiasm for the sport across the country.
South Africa Claims the Title
In the championship final, South Africa’s Blitzboks delivered a dominant performance against Fiji, using their signature speed and aggressive defense to clinch the tournament title with a 28-14 victory. The win solidified South Africa’s position at the top of the World Rugby Sevens Series standings, further establishing them as one of the premier teams in the sport.
Rugby’s Growth in the U.S. Continues
The record-breaking attendance at Allegiant Stadium and the energetic atmosphere surrounding the tournament signaled the rapid growth of rugby in the U.S. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, events like the USA Sevens are playing a critical role in expanding the sport’s footprint.
“The level of competition and fan engagement here in the U.S. continues to rise every year,” said USA Rugby head coach Mike Friday. “We’re seeing a real shift in how rugby is being embraced, and that’s exciting for the future.”
As rugby sevens continues gaining momentum in America, the success of the USA Sevens tournament further proves that the sport is here to stay, with a promising future ahead.
