World Cup 'history is being made' - Treder

Kathryn Treder was born in Anchorage, Alaska, and represented the USA in the Women's Rugby World Cup in 2022

Rugby international Kathryn Treder said "history is being made" as the demand for tickets to the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup hits record levels.

The 28-year-old represented the USA in the 2022 tournament hosted by New Zealand.

"I am always trying to chase that feeling I felt when I played for my country," the Loughborough Lightning player said.

"We are part of an important history seeing this demand in interest and I hope to witness it on the pitch when the time comes."

More than 220,000 tickets have been sold for the tournament, which will be staged in England, ensuring it will be the best attended in history.

Organisers said 50% more tickets have been already been sold for the 2025 edition than were bought for the previous event.

'A good product'

American Treder, who plays at hooker, said: "Women's sports in general are having such a big breakthrough and it's so thrilling for me to be a part off.

"We are seeing our hard work being recognised and rewarded, which you see in the attendance of fans.

"All teams are finally getting the respect we deserve for the sacrifices we put into the sport we love."

Treder joined Loughborough, who are partnered with Northampton Saints, for the 2023-24 season and extended her stay with the club in the summer.

The Lightning host Harlequins on Saturday at Saints' Franklin's Gardens, which has been chosen to host six World Cup games next year.

"Our home and away games have seen the attendance building. It is all preparation for next year," Treder added.

"Loads of people have contributed to this, lots of dedication goes into marketing the team, so we have to give out a good product."