Ilona Maher

Ilona Maher is a rugby sevens superstar and two-time Olympian. Winning a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Games, the Team USA athlete followed up her showing in France with a stint on Season 33 of Dancing With the Stars, where she came in second place overall. Since then, Maher has cultivated a devoted social media following, using her platform to encourage body positivity with her personal motto, “Beast Beauty Brains.”

In 2024, Maher became SI Swimsuit’s second digital cover star, traveling to Bellport, New York, with the magazine for a breathtaking debut feature. She reunited with the brand last year, appearing in the pages of the 2025 issue with her sophomore shoot in Bermuda, and in 2026, she’s back for round three, this time soaking in the sun during her golden shoot in Loreto, Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Outside of her sport, Maher is a proud ambassador for ChildFund Rugby, an organization that helps children from vulnerable communities overcome challenges through integrated rugby and life skills. The athlete also works closely with youth organization Girls Rugby Inc., donating 100% of proceeds from her personal merchandise to the group to empower young girls through leadership and confidence-building.