Maher expressed her desire to play for the USA squad for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, after competing in the 7’s format at the recent Olympics. Joining the Bristol Bears on a short contract allows her to adjust to the 15s format, which is used in the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
She stated she was “excited to join the Bristol Bears and put [herself] in the best position to earn a spot to represent USA in the 2025 Rugby World Cup alongside such a talented and driven group as the Bears.”
Maher’s recent rise to fame came with her increased social media presence, primarily via TikTok as she competed with Team USA in the summer 2024 Paris Olympics. USA took bronze in women’s rugby 7’s as Maher simultaneously preached body positivity to the girls that had a more muscular build – similar to the one she honed through rugby.
Social media gave rise to Ilona Maher’s stardom, amassing around 1.5 million followers between June and August of 2024. Her platform talks about how women should be able to embrace their femininity even if their bodies are regarded as more ‘masculine’, sharing her personal experiences with this.
Her platform talks about how women should be able to embrace their femininity even if their bodies are regarded as more ‘masculine’
Her popularity presented her the opportunity to participate as a celebrity contestant on Dancing With The Stars (USA’s version of Strictly Come Dancing), where she was partnered with professional dance partner Alan Bersten.
Maher was incredibly active on all social media platforms during her time on the show, where she made it to the finals, contributing towards growing the viewership to an all time high.
Maher’s influence spreads far and wide, having gained a following of over 8 million across TikTok and Instagram, she draws more female fans into the sport and sheds a much needed light on the Women’s Rugby Leagues, both in the UK and the USA.