Heather Fisher: World Cup Winner in Hair Loss, Identity and Resilience

Fisher believes the sporting world has made modest strides in embracing women of all shapes and sizes and those with differences, with rugby seen as one of the most inclusive sports.

Social media platforms, especially TikTok, have played an important role in changing perceptions, allowing athletes to tell their stories and highlight the ways in which they are breaking the mold.

Reflecting on her career, Fisher notes how different the scene was a few years ago.

Her social media presence was in its infancy when she was playing. If you work on your profile, “you’ll almost be seen as not taking the sport seriously,” she adds.

But that has changed now.

“If I were playing now I would definitely share my story on social media,” she says. “It would draw attention and be a real positive way to showcase the game and showcase someone who looks and feels different.”

Among the athletes who have redefined what it means to be a woman in sports is American star Ilona Maher.

She is the most followed rugby player – male or female – in the world, with millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram thanks to content that celebrates her strength and femininity.

“I think it’s interesting with Ilona Maher because she did such a great job,” Fisher says.

“She’s a great advocate for what you put out there and she’s gorgeous. But she still looks very feminine.”