Maddison Levi, widely recognised as the top rugby sevens player globally, is currently relishing a “well-deserved break” after an eventful 2024 season that she describes as a “rollercoaster”.
The electrifying athlete was instrumental for Australia throughout the year, netting 14 tries as the team secured a fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics.
However, amidst a hectic schedule representing her nation, Levi faced a setback when she fractured her thumb at the Perth Sevens tournament last month.
Maddison Levi has faced an injury setback. Getty
This injury has meant that the 22-year-old has had to watch her teammates compete from the sidelines, as they managed to achieve a third-place finish at the Vancouver Sevens over the past weekend—a situation Levi labelled as “frustrating”.
“I tuned into every match, cheering from a distance—it was definitely more frustrating not being able to contribute,” Levi shared with Wide World of Sports.
“The team performed excellently, adding more depth to our squad.”
“Having my sister, Teagan, playing as well just heightens my nerves as I watch her, ensuring she’s making the right moves… I’m probably her toughest critic.”
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While stepping back is not something Levi is accustomed to, given her rise to prominence as a teenager, the Gold Coast native is making the best of the situation.
“I’m focusing on the positives, which I try to do in all areas of my life,” she remarked.
Maddison Levi displaying her skills for Australia. Getty
“It’s a rare opportunity for me to take a break when it comes to sevens transitioning to 15s and then aiming for the World Cup—there’s not much downtime.”
“As much as I dislike being sidelined, it’s a chance to refine everything and ensure that I’m becoming fitter, faster, and stronger.”
“This is likely my first significant injury, but a thumb injury isn’t too serious.
“It has only increased my eagerness to return—I think after a challenging year, this has reignited my desire to get back on the field with the girls.”
Though she doesn’t anticipate a lengthy absence, Levi acknowledges the demanding year ahead, which also offers a chance to achieve a unique milestone.
With her sister Teagan and several other sevens players, Levi is set to compete in the Super Rugby tournament while vying for a selection in the World Cup.
“More and more, as we observe our teammates succeed in the 15s format, it stirs excitement within us,” she expressed.
Maddison Levi with her Queensland Reds teammates. Queensland Reds
“We aim to not only support the existing players but also incorporate our sevens experience to enhance what we’ve learnt.”
“Having secured the sevens World Cup in 2023, the chance to compete in another World Cup in a different code and become a dual international is incredibly thrilling.”
“Only a handful of athletes have accomplished this, and it’s a testament to the growth of women’s sport that we can navigate both formats of the game.”
“We need to seize the opportunities available to us moving forward.”
Levi is anticipated to play for the Queensland Reds during the upcoming Super Rugby Women’s season, as she balances her commitments on the sevens circuit, all with the hope of securing a place in the Wallaroos squad for the Rugby World Cup in August.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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