Three award categories
Kalyn Ponga has won the men’s 2026 International Rugby League Golden Boot, while Stacey Waaka has won the women’s award, New Zealand Rugby League announced on November 12.
The NRL’s official November 12 award page names Rob Hawkins as the wheelchair Golden Boot winner. The three categories are part of the same international awards.
International performances are the basis
IRL describes the Golden Boot as recognition for performances in sanctioned international rugby league matches during the year. Its November 11 publication was the shortlist, rather than the completed winners announcement.
NZRL says Waaka scored nine tries in four World Cup matches. It credits Ponga with a key role in New Zealand’s semi-final victory over Tonga.
The World Cup finals are still ahead
NZRL says the Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns are due to face Australia in their respective finals at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Sunday. The award announcements do not establish the results of those upcoming matches.
