The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has denied claims that its women's rugby program is financially harming the men's game, responding to recent allegations shared on social media. WRU women's rugby director Nadine Griffiths called the idea that a men's team might be cut due to investment in women's rugby "embarrassing." She emphasized that the women's program has actually generated revenue for the organization. The WRU launched a professional women's rugby program in early 2022, with over 40 contracted players. However, rumors about potentially cutting one of the four men's professional teams—likely Scarlets or Ospreys—have caused controversy. Griffiths expressed disappointment with online claims that the women's game is draining funds from the men's, noting that the two have separate budgets, including distinct allocations for the men's game, women's game, the Principality Stadium, and community rugby. Griffiths highlighted that the women's program generated £1.7 million in revenue last year and has greater potential for commercial growth compared to the men's side. She said the men's game is facing challenges in increasing ticket sales and attendance, which limits its growth. In contrast, the women's game is seen as a growing area that can attract new fans, boost jersey sales, and increase viewership, contributing to the overall development of rugby in Wales. Griffiths, who has held her position since June and is part of the WRU's leadership team, is focused on increasing the visibility of the women's game, including the senior team, youth development, and grassroots rugby. She acknowledged that the current performance of the senior women's team, which has not won any of their last nine Test matches and is ranked 13th in the world, is not helping the cause. "We can't ignore the fact that results matter," Griffiths said. "The real test will be the WXV competition, which gives us a chance to measure our progress against teams ranked higher than us." Wales will begin their WXV campaign against South Africa on Friday at Cardiff Arms Park (19:15 BST) and face the USA at the same venue eight days later. They will then travel to Japan for two Tests in October. Griffiths noted that results won't come immediately, but she pointed to positive developments in the under-18s and under-21s teams. Head coach Sean Lynn also included eight uncapped players in the WXV squad, showing that youth pathways are functioning effectively. "When these pathways work and competition for places is strong, results will eventually follow," Griffiths said.