By now, Ilona Maher is no stranger to criticism. From snide comments about her body to misguided opinions about her sport, the Olympic rugby star has heard it all. But instead of shrinking back, she’s turned that noise into fuel and, more importantly, into purpose. The message she’s sending now? Thank you. Yes, even to the critics. Because without you (fans), there wouldn’t be her. What? Yes!!! And win or lose, her fans never fade; they’re right there, cheering her on every step of the way as they recently did.

Maher, known not just for her fierce plays on the rugby field but also for her presence on social media, has long been outspoken about body image and representation in sports. When internet trolls tried to shame her for having a “BMI of 30,” she didn’t flinch. She posted a TikTok confirming it “29.3 to be exact” and reminded them that outdated metrics don’t define her athleticism. Then she dropped the mic: “But alas, I’m going to the Olympics and you’re not.” Boom.

But that’s just one moment in a pattern of clapbacks that are far more powerful than snark; they’re educational, empowering, and rooted in gratitude. Because, as Ilona Maher sees it, all of it, the love, the hate, the confusion, the curiosity, it’s made her stronger. And perhaps more surprisingly, she’s not just talking to haters. She’s talking to fans even after a loss.

Loud and clear. “Why do you spend so much time with the fans after the final whistle? Because they are also the ones changing the game. They are buying the tickets, showing up, and cheering for us. We want more people to play rugby, but almost just as important: we need people supporting it.” She shared this heartfelt message on Instagram.

This came after a tough match at North Harbour Stadium during the Pacific Four Series, where Team USA suffered a heavy 79-14 loss to New Zealand, their third consecutive defeat after games against Australia and Canada. But despite the scoreline, the stadium was filled with a strong, loyal crowd who came to support Maher and her teammates.

In moments like these, the medalist could be seen warmly hugging and greeting fans and players alike, connecting with those who stayed behind after the game, showing that no matter the result, the bond between athlete and fan remains unbreakable, and that support is what fuels the journey forward. For Ilona Maher, the stands are just as important as the scoreboard.

Every person who shows up isn’t just watching—they’re building. Women’s rugby, like so many women’s sports, is still fighting for visibility, resources, and respect. And Maher sees the fans as her teammates in that fight. “For the women’s game to grow, we need to grow our fan base. We need more seats filled to show the value that we know we have. Our fanbase can be a lot different than the men’s, but that’s what makes it so cool.”

Ilona Maher lights up talking about the sea of unfamiliar faces, especially women and girls, who are showing up for the very first time. Rugby might be new to them, but thanks to Maher’s presence and power, they stay. And they come back. And they bring friends. “Please buy the ticket and then invite your friend and get them to buy a ticket. Run a pyramid scheme of people supporting women’s sports.”

It’s classic Maher: smart, funny, and sincere.  Critics have tried to define her. Fans have helped uplift her. And Ilona Maher? She’s out there redefining and slamming the critics open.

Ilona Maher’s fight against stereotypes

Ilona Maher doesn’t just play rugby; she fights back against criticism with fierce confidence. When a troll mocked her BMI, she didn’t hold back posting a viral TikTok saying, “I do have a BMI of 30 — or 29.3 to be more exact,” then finishing with, “But alas, I’m going to the Olympics, and you’re not.” That clapback instantly silenced body shamers and flipped the script on how we measure strength and athleticism.

Her message was clear: numbers don’t define her heart, hustle, and results do. Maher also refuses to let stereotypes box her in. Wearing lipstick on the field, she’s taken control of the narrative, telling fans, “I see girls putting on a full face before they go play, and it’s us taking back our narrative.” Critics might expect rugby players to look a certain way, but Ilona challenges that by blending toughness with femininity.

When someone doubted her place in the 15s game before sponsorship deals, a fan created a viral reel highlighting her Olympic medals, her gritty performances, and her leadership, proving that Ilona’s earned every bit of her spot. She shared the reel with a simple “I love my fans,” letting her achievements and supporters do the talking.

Even in the face of harsh comments, Ilona Maher stays unbothered and turns negativity into fuel.  When asked about body standards, she said, “There’s no one way to look or feel strong.” Her fans rally behind her, defending her publicly and flooding social media with support whenever critics try to drag her down.

With Adidas calling her a “history-making athlete” and record crowds showing up for her games, Ilona isn’t just shutting down critics; she’s rewriting the entire playbook for what it means to be a strong woman in sports. No matter who’s in the stands, one thing’s for sure: she sees you, she hears you, and she’s ready to run through the noise rugby ball in hand.