Since bursting into global recognition in last year’s Olympic Games with the USA 7s team, Ilona Maher has amassed supporters from not just the rugby world, but people all over the planet.

Her body positivity stance and winning personality have helped gain her recognition from some of the most high profile organisations and people in today’s society. Her impact on the women’s game is arguably unmatched, having influenced so many youngsters into joining the game, and made even more feel comfortable in their own skin.

The 28-year-old’s flame has burned twice as bright, but may burn for half as long. Maher said after the USA Women’s opening round loss to Canada: “I don’t know how much longer I’ll do it. So I want to leave it in a better place.”

The American star, who was playing at outside centre in the Pacific Four Series match, remains heavily optimistic that when she does eventually step aside from the game, future players will be able to step into her spotlight.

“I do make my brand about growing rugby, but I think it’s not just me growing it. It’s all of us. It’s my teammates — all of us who need a little bit of the spotlight as well,” she said.

“I think the spotlight has been on me a lot, but I hope this World Cup brings more people out and creates more rugby superstars.”

The superstar reflected on her journey, referring back to the landmark Sports Illustrated Swimsuit photoshoot she did in August 2024 and her time on Dancing with the Stars, adding: “It’s kind of balancing business and being a social media person, as well as being a rugby player.”

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Ready to be what her fans need

Maher’s influence can be spotted from just the click of a button. One needs simply to check out her Instagram account, with almost 5 million followers, to see the positivity that flows through her brand. On a recent beachwear video where she strutted his stuff in front of a beautiful blue sea, fans left her feed covered in supportive messages.

One person said: “My daughter came home from school and said her whole class was talking about ‘that really strong but really beautiful woman that plays rugby’. None of them could remember your name but they all knew you.” Another jokingly asked: “Why is this video 2 hours long.”

More great feedback included: “Love the positive role model that you are for my 16 yr old daughter who just played her first rugby game! Thanks for being an inspiration. (And btw, you look absolutely incredible.)”, and “Just stood up and started clapping in my living room.”

While Maher has given no definitive timescale around her playing time, her impact will last much, much longer.

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Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/i-dont-know-how-much-longer-ill-do-it-worlds-most-high-profile-rugby-player-considers-retirement