The U.S. women's rugby sevens team made history at the Paris Olympics 2024 by clinching the country's first-ever medal in the sport. In a thrilling match against Australia, the U.S. emerged victorious with a narrow 14-12 scoreline to snag the bronze medal. The highlight of the game came in the final moments when Alex Sedrick scored a crucial try and followed it up with a game-winning conversion, propelling the U.S. to victory.

Sedrick, who isn't the designated kicker on the team, stepped up to take the decisive kick as the team's usual kicker was off the field during the game-changing moment. "I'm not a kicker by any means, I'm not even second third or fourth in line for that position. But I was the one on the field to take it, and luckily it went in," Sedrick commented on her match-winning contribution.

Following their historic win, the American players displayed an emotional celebration at the Stade de France. The stadium resonated with Bruce Springsteen's iconic anthem "Born in the U.S.A." as the team basked in their triumph. Ilona Maher raised both hands overhead in victory, symbolizing the team's hard-fought success.

In a post-match interview, Maher expressed the team's desire to inspire future generations of rugby players in the United States. "We wanted to do this to show what rugby could be in America. We say in rugby a lot that we want to pass the jersey. You're passing through the jersey, it's not yours it's the next person's," Maher articulated, emphasizing the team's commitment to paving the way for aspiring young athletes.

Earlier in the day, the U.S. team faced a formidable challenge against the reigning Olympic champions, New Zealand, in the semifinals, where they succumbed to a 24-12 defeat. The stage was then set for the gold medal showdown between New Zealand and Canada, with New Zealand ultimately emerging victorious to claim the gold, while Canada settled for silver.