- Olympian rugby star Ilona Maher has become a powerful force for body positivity since joining the SI Swimsuit family in 2024.
- From a stunning digital cover to a feature in the annual print issue, Maher has consistently used the platform to challenge outdated beauty standards.
- She directly confronts critics who label her as ‘masculine,’ using her strength as a source of confidence and beauty.
- Maher capped her phenomenal rise with a confident debut at the SI Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week.
From Olympic Medalist to SI Swimsuit Star
Olympian and rugby powerhouse Ilona Maher has rapidly become an iconic member of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit family. Since her debut digital feature in 2024, Maher has used her platform to redefine beauty, proving that strength and femininity are a powerful combination. Her journey is a masterclass in authenticity and a direct challenge to anyone who believes in a single standard of beauty.
A Champion’s Debut
Fresh off a bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Maher made her grand entrance as an SI Swimsuit digital cover model. Photographed in Bellport, N.Y., by Ben Watts, the feature showcased her grace and power. Maher used the moment to share her evolving perspective on beauty.
“I think my idea of beauty has changed in that it used to be more what society said, like skinny, smaller bodies—which are beautiful bodies—but other bodies can be beautiful as well,” Maher told the magazine. “Like finding my muscles attractive, my body, my bigger frame beautiful.”
Confronting the Critics
Maher has been transparent about the criticism she faces as a strong female athlete. Instead of letting negative comments bring her down, she turns them into fuel. “I get comments, of course, being called masculine, manly,” she shared. “But so many female athletes get that. People are intimidated by this strong, powerful person… I don’t think you’re going to bully the girl who could probably beat you up.”
Taking Over Print and the Runway
Maher’s impact continued to grow with her second feature in 2025, shot in Bermuda by Watts, which landed her in the coveted yearly print issue. She championed the idea that all body types are made for swimsuits, stating, “I hope people see my photos and understand that strength can be so beautiful and so feminine.”
Her unstoppable momentum carried her to the 2025 SI Swimsuit Runway Show in Miami. Recounting the experience on the Not Gonna Lie podcast with Kylie Kelce, Maher radiated confidence. “I’ve never felt as hot as I did that week,” she said. “I am definitely heavier than I’ve been; I’m not in Olympic fitness, but I feel really good.” Strutting down the catwalk in two stunning looks, she proved that self-belief is the ultimate accessory.
You can watch the podcast here:
Between her powerful photoshoots and her unforgettable runway debut, Ilona Maher has cemented her legacy, not just as an athlete, but as a game-changing voice for body appreciation.
Image Referance: https://swimsuit.si.com/models/ilona-maher/best-si-swimsuit-moments