At the Paris Olympics, Ilona Maher was on a mission. The rugby sevens star wasn’t just playing to win—she was leading her team to their first-ever Olympic medal. And let’s just say, she left nothing to chance. On French soil, Maher made sure to tie up every loose end. The result? Team USA women’s rugby took down Australia in the third-place match, leaving Paris with huge smiles and, of course, an epic medal around their necks. But was that the end of the road for the 28-year-old? Nope.

After lighting up the rugby field, Ilona quickly swapped her cleats for dancing shoes and rushed off to Dancing with the Stars. She was cast as a contestant on the hit reality show, paired with pro dancer Alan Bersten. But before she hit the DWTS stage, she only had one week back in her hometown of Burlington. It was a heartwarming reunion as her family welcomed her at the airport after what felt like forever. The return to her roots was a special moment, and it didn’t disappoint. Overall, Ilona had a memorable experience, but now she’s got to tackle her new life.

After the Paris Olympics, Ilona Maher isn’t just a star on social media—she’s a full-blown celebrity, even among her teammates. Now a senior player, having competed in two Olympic Games, she’s already made her mark on the rugby world. But Ilona’s not stopping there. She’s determined to stay in the spotlight—not just for her impressive rugby skills but also for all the exciting things she’s doing off the field.

From that perspective, she told People, “I think it’ll be tough [for me] once the hype does die down a little bit, whenever that is. Because right now, whatever I’m doing is bigger than just 15 minutes and I think I create something with it.” By spilling those lines, the athlete surely indicated her presence on DWTS’ floor. 

In the fourth week of DWTS, Ilona Maher is still running strong with her dance partner, Bersten. Her dancing skills have been highlighted in this duration. Furthermore, her fans have earned multiple chances to watch her in a vibrant wrap. After all, that’s what Maher has wanted—to make a steady place in the audience’s heart. The beginning of it started during her presence at the Paris Olympics. 

During her time at the Paris Olympics, Ilona Maher earned an extraordinary number of followers on her social media. On Instagram, the number marks approximately 3.7 million. Why? Through her shares on social media, Maher tried to promote body-positive messages and several subjects highlighting women’s inclusion in athletics.

That attracted a lot of eyes. She also presented several priceless moments from the Games Village to her fans. That highlighted Ilona Maher’s several sides. The fans loved to watch those. And now, the rugby star is trying to fill in her new shoes. However, she has special support from her family. 

Ilona Maher’s family stands beside her on her journey to new avenues 

According to Olivia Maher, Ilona’s sister and manager, the sport her sister plays is not among the most well-known in the United States. Therefore, only winning an Olympic medal may not be sufficient for Ilona to shape her life on her own. That evokes the need to show people that Ilona Maher is more than a rugby athlete. That may have worked behind her additional presence on social media. 

Now, as she is doing wonders on social media, the relevant activities have taken up the place of an added profession. Per Michael, Ilona’s father, this profession is an ‘outlet’ for her. He further added, “She’s got two jobs, she’s a hardworking athlete and a TikTok Instagram presenter of things.”

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Of course, balancing this post-Olympic life isn’t always a smooth ride. From time to time, it’s a demanding hustle. But throughout it all, Ilona remains mindful of her responsibilities as a representative of Burlington, Virginia, and San Diego (her new home). For now, her smooth sailing has already earned her her flowers.