There are many influential athletes around the world. These athletes inspire people of all ages both on and off the field. Many know names like Serena Williams, Alex Morgan and Simone Biles. Now, a new rising star is making her name known.
Ilona Maher is an American rugby player for Team USA and the Bristol Bears. She led Team USA to bronze during the 2024 Paris Olympics, claiming their first ever American medal for Olympic rugby sevens.
Maher has made a name for herself on the Rugby field, becoming an inspiration for young female athletes around the world. She has gained more popularity and recognition for her sport.
Off the field, Maher has made a big name for herself as well. She uses her social media platform to advocate for body positivity, self-confidence and female empowerment in sports.
Maher uses these platforms to share her own experience about feeling uncomfortable in her own skin and being shamed for her body type. She recently was the cover model for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit and shared her message of body positivity while also challenging traditional beauty norms.
To help spread her message, Maher started the #BeautyBeastBrains campaign, which works to advocate for women in sports around the world and encourage them to do what they love and find the beauty they all have within themselves.