Women in Polo
From pioneering players who broke barriers to the new generation pushing the sport forward, women's polo is experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition worldwide.
Women have achieved 10-goal handicap rating
Countries with active women's polo programs
Registered women polo players worldwide
Highest women's handicap rating achieved
A Sport Transformed
Women have played polo since the late 19th century, but the past two decades have seen an explosion in participation, competition, and recognition. What was once a rarity is now a thriving part of the polo world.
Today, women compete at all levels — from beginner chukkas to international championships. National associations have created dedicated women's programs, and sponsors are investing in women's polo like never before.
The rise of social media has also helped showcase women's polo to new audiences, inspiring the next generation of players and changing perceptions about who belongs on the polo field.
Historic Milestone
In 2023, the FIP (Federation of International Polo) officially recognized the Women's World Championship as a tier-one international event, putting it on equal footing with the men's championship.
Youth Pipeline
Youth polo programs worldwide are seeing near-equal participation from boys and girls, promising a more balanced future for the sport at all levels.
Women's Tournament Calendar
From World Championships to regional competitions, women's polo has a packed calendar of prestigious events worldwide.
Premier Women's Events
The most prestigious women's polo events on the global calendar.
FIP Women's World Championship
Various (rotating)
The pinnacle of women's international polo, featuring national teams from around the world.
Women's Argentine Open
Buenos Aires, Argentina
The most prestigious women's polo tournament in the world, held at Campo Argentino de Polo.
The 10-Goal Club
In 2024, women's polo reached a historic milestone: for the first time, players achieved the maximum 10-goal handicap in the women's category. These are the pioneers who made history.
Mia Cambiaso
Argentina • AAP • 10 goals
First woman to achieve 10-goal handicap in Argentina (2024)
Daughter of legendary player Adolfo Cambiaso, Mia has shattered records and expectations. At just 19, she became the first woman in history to reach the maximum 10-goal handicap in the women's category, awarded by the Argentine Polo Association.
"I grew up watching the best. Now I want to help grow women's polo to new heights."
Candelaria Fernandez Araujo
Argentina • AAP • 10 goals
Historic 10-goaler, multiple Women's Argentine Open champion
A dominant force in women's polo for over a decade, Candelaria has won numerous titles and helped elevate the women's game to unprecedented levels. Her consistency and skill have made her one of the most decorated female players in history.
"Every match is an opportunity to show what women's polo can be. We're just getting started."
Pioneering Players
The women who continue to push boundaries and inspire the next generation.
Lia Salvo
Argentina • 9 goals HF
Rising star, consistently ranked among top women players worldwide
"The future of women's polo is bright. We're proving ourselves on the biggest stages."
Catalina Lavaque
Argentina • 8 goals HF
Multiple Women's Argentine Open champion, powerhouse of Argentine polo
"Every season we see the level rising. Women's polo has never been more competitive."
Milagros Fernandez Araujo
Argentina • 8 goals HF
Dominant force in high-goal women's tournaments
"Playing at the highest level requires complete dedication. There are no shortcuts."
Nina Clarkin
United Kingdom • 5 goals
Highest-rated female player in British polo history
"Women's polo has grown tremendously in my lifetime. The standard keeps rising every year."
Hazel Jackson-Sherwin
United Kingdom • 4 goals
Multiple British Open winner, legendary competitor
"Polo is about the partnership between player and pony. Gender doesn't define that bond."
Lía Francisca Ruiz
Chile • 6 goals HF
Chile's highest-rated female player, FIP World Championship competitor
"Representing Chile on the world stage is an incredible honor. We're building something special."
Hope Arellano
USA • 6 goals
Top American female player, US Open competitor
"Growing up in a polo family taught me that passion knows no boundaries."
Sunny Hale
USA • 4 goals (retired)
First woman to play in US Open Polo Championship (2000)
"Breaking barriers isn't just about being the first — it's about opening doors for those who follow."
Claire Donnelly
Ireland • 4 goals
European champion, trailblazer for Irish women's polo
"Ireland has a rich equestrian heritage. Women's polo is the natural next chapter."
Tarini Bhatnagar
India • 2 goals
Pioneer of women's polo in India, national team captain
"We're writing a new story for polo in India. Women are leading the charge."
Emma Tomlinson
United Kingdom • 3 goals
British Ladies Open champion, polo dynasty member
"The Tomlinson name comes with expectations, but I'm forging my own path."
Heloise Wilson-Smith
Australia • 3 goals
Leading Australian female player, Pacific Polo champion
"Australian polo is growing rapidly. Women are at the forefront of that growth."
Handicaps & Competition
Women use the same handicap rating system as men, from -2 (beginner) to 10 (elite). The system is gender-neutral, reflecting playing ability rather than gender.
Key Points
Women and men use the same handicap scale (-2 to 10 goals)
Women can play in open/mixed tournaments at any level
Women's-only tournaments often have specific handicap limits
The highest women's handicap currently stands at 5 goals
Handicaps are awarded by national polo associations based on playing ability
Mixed & Women-Only Play
- Many low and medium goal tournaments are mixed gender
- Some clubs offer women-only chukkas and practice sessions
- High-goal polo remains predominantly male, but women have competed
- Youth polo is typically fully integrated
Looking to Play?
Many clubs offer women-only sessions, making it easy to get started in a supportive environment. Check our directory for clubs with women's programs.
Find Women-Friendly ClubsBe Part of the Story
Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to compete, there's never been a better time for women in polo. Start your journey today.
Women in Polo FAQ
Common questions about women's participation, tournaments, and opportunities in polo.
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