Applause and cheers filled the air as day two of the tournament got underway, with many fans praising the party-like mood at the new stadium.
One Australian spectator, Dan – who has been to many previous editions of the Sevens in Causeway Bay's Hong Kong Stadium – said he really likes the new venue.
"It feels like the old stadium's atmosphere, just in a much more upgraded arena. It's a great new stadium."
He said that besides Australia, he has thrown his support behind the Hong Kong, China squad in the Melrose Claymores competition – after both the men's and women's sides won big in both their respective matches earlier in the day.
"[The SAR squad] is always my next best team," he said. "The atmosphere when they play is amazing. I can't wait to see the stadium packed out, it's gonna be a great time."
Another fan, from the United Kingdom, shared similar views on the new arena.
"I think it's absolutely fantastic," he told RTHK. "Not only is [the stadium] bigger, you've got all those fancy light shows and the tech and everything. All the amenities and everything is so much better – absolutely amazing atmosphere."
The stadium's South Stand – where many fans are known to gather in large numbers at the Sevens each year – reached maximum capacity just after 1pm.
"It's a great vibe here," another Australia fan, named Justin, said.
"There's space, you can walk around and meet all your friends and your mates. It's unreal."
Meanwhile, rugby players said the roar of the crowd was electrifying.
"We were so excited to be on the pitch. The crowds were very enthusiastic, cheering us on." Jiang Yutong, who plays for the national women's squad, told RTHK.
"It feels so good."
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Last updated: 2025-03-29 HKT 19:19
