Ilona Maher is an American rugby star, Olympian, and social media influencer who has become one of the most recognizable names in women’s rugby. Known for her strength, confidence, and humor, she won a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics in rugby sevens.
Beyond the pitch, she’s famous for her viral TikToks, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit features, and her advocacy for body positivity. With millions of followers online, Ilona is the most-followed rugby player on Instagram. She now plays for the Bristol Bears in England and is representing the USA at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Ilona Maher Wiki/Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ilona Delsing Rosa Maher OLY |
| Date of Birth | August 12, 1996 |
| Age | 29 years (as of 2025) |
| Profession | Rugby Union Player, Influencer, TV Personality |
| Hometown | Burlington, Vermont, USA |
| Current Residence | England (with Bristol Bears) |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| @ilonamaher | |
| X (Twitter) | @ilona_maher |
Physical Details
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Weight | 90 kg (approx.) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Ilona Maher Early Life
Ilona Maher was born in Burlington, Vermont, on August 12, 1996. She grew up in an active household with her parents and two sisters, Olivia and Adrianna. Her father, Michael Maher, once played rugby in college and passed that passion on to her, while her mother, Mieneke Maher, worked as a nurse and inspired Ilona’s caring side.
As a child, Ilona tried different sports including basketball, softball, soccer, and field hockey. At 17, during her senior year of high school, she switched from softball to rugby, joining South Burlington RFC. That late start soon turned into her life’s calling.
Ilona Maher Education
Ilona studied at Norwich University before transferring to Quinnipiac University, where she majored in nursing and played rugby. She became a standout player for the Quinnipiac Bobcats, helping them win three NIRA championships and earning the MA Sorensen Award in 2017 as the top collegiate rugby player. She later earned an MBA from DeVry University, balancing her studies with a growing rugby career.
Ilona Maher Family Details
Ilona Maher’s family has always been central to her journey. Her dad’s rugby background encouraged her athletic dreams, while her mom’s Dutch heritage gave her pride in her roots. Ilona is the middle child, close to her sisters Olivia and Adrianna. Though she keeps her private life mostly out of the spotlight, she often thanks her family in interviews and posts.
As of 2025, Ilona is single and focused on her sporting career. She has openly joked about relationships on social media but hasn’t confirmed any partner.
Ilona Maher Career
Ilona Maher’s career began at Quinnipiac, where she became one of the best college rugby players in the country. She made her USA national team debut in 2018 at a rugby sevens tournament in Paris.
Her first Olympics came at Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021), where she scored tries but finished sixth overall. What truly made her a breakout star was her fun and candid TikToks from the Olympic Village, which reached millions of people worldwide.
Her biggest achievement came at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she played a crucial role in helping Team USA win a bronze medal, the nation’s first-ever Olympic rugby medal.
After that, Ilona joined the Bristol Bears in December 2024, making her debut in January 2025. She scored her first try and assist against Exeter Chiefs, showing her skill in 15s rugby. She was later selected for the USA Eagles squad for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
Off the field, Ilona is equally successful. She co-founded Medalist Skincare, aimed at athletes, and is a brand ambassador for big names like Secret and L’Oreal. In 2024, she was featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, returned again in 2025, and was named to Forbes 30 Under 30. She also competed in Dancing with the Stars Season 33, finishing as runner-up. In 2025, she won Best Breakthrough Athlete at the ESPYs, proving her impact beyond rugby.
Career Milestones
| Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Rugby Start | Began at 17 with South Burlington RFC |
| College Success | Three NIRA titles at Quinnipiac; MA Sorensen Award 2017 |
| National Team Debut | 2018 Paris SVNS tournament |
| Olympic Debut | Tokyo 2020 (2021); 6th place finish |
| Olympic Medal | Bronze at Paris 2024 with USA Sevens |
| Bristol Bears | Joined in Dec 2024; first try Jan 2025 vs Exeter |
| World Cup | Selected for USA Eagles at 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup |
Controversies
Ilona Maher has mostly stayed away from scandals but has faced body-shaming and sexist comments about her muscular build. She has always responded with confidence, turning criticism into motivation and using her platform to promote body positivity. Some also criticized her Olympic TikToks as “unprofessional,” but most fans celebrated her fun energy. In 2025, WWE rumors briefly circulated but she clarified her focus remains on rugby.
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