Global rugby participation is on the rise, with a remarkable 11 percent increase in 2023, reaching 8.46 million players, as the sport stages a remarkable comeback following the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Global rugby participation is on the rise, with a remarkable 11 percent increase in 2023, reaching 8.46 million players, as the sport stages a remarkable comeback following the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.