Rugby player Ilona Maher has made waves as the cover star of Sports Illustrated’s September digital issue. After leading the U.S. women’s rugby team to their first bronze finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Maher is now gracing the cover in style. The 28-year-old Olympian is captured wearing an asymmetrical brown Myra Swim top and a matching Brazilian-cut bottom in a stunning photo shoot by Ben Watts on a dock in Belport, NY.
Sports Illustrated captioned Maher’s cover post with the hashtag #beastbeautybrains, highlighting her multifaceted personality. The magazine praised Maher for breaking the stereotype of what it means to be a female athlete. Throughout the shoot, Maher showcased her toned physique in a variety of bikinis and one-pieces, with one outfit paying homage to her Olympic bronze medalist status.
In her interview with SI Swimsuit, Maher discussed growing up being called “masculine” and how she never let that perception define her. She emphasized that her identity was strong and resilient, stating that she wouldn’t allow herself to be bullied. Maher also opened up about the positive impact sports have had on her body image, acknowledging that her cellulite was not a barrier to her success.
Fans and fellow athletes expressed their admiration for Maher’s Sports Illustrated cover. Many praised her for demonstrating that beauty and strength go hand in hand. Messages of support flooded social media, with fans thanking Maher for inspiring young girls and women to embrace their own power and resilience. Athletes like gymnast Aly Raisman congratulated Maher on her achievements and celebrated her success.
Ilona Maher’s appearance on the cover of Sports Illustrated represents a significant moment for female athletes and the broader sports community. Her journey from Olympic success to magazine cover star showcases determination, resilience, and a commitment to breaking down stereotypes. Maher’s story serves as a reminder that strength, beauty, and intelligence are not mutually exclusive, and that embracing one’s true identity can lead to incredible achievements.