Ilona Maher

From Rugby to the Dance Floor: Ilona Maher's Stunning DWTS Journey!

Catch Olympic rugby star Ilona Maher as she wows the crowd and places second on Dancing with the Stars!

Ilona Maher, the fierce rugby star from Burlington, Vermont, has danced her way into America's heart! The Bronze Medalist gained a new fan base as she captivated audiences during the finale of 'Dancing with the Stars' (DWTS) Season 33. Maher, who became a household name after helping lead the U.S. women's rugby team to a bronze medal in the 2024 Olympics, showcased her skills beyond the rugby field, securing a well-deserved second place finish in the much-loved reality series. With partner Alan Bersten at her side, they turned heads with their energetic performances, leaving fans buzzing with excitement and pride.

However, the competition was fierce! Joey Graziadei, known for his role on 'The Bachelor', and pro partner Jenna Johnson danced their way to victory, being crowned the champions of this season's DWTS. Despite not taking home the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy, Maher’s remarkable performance had social media platforms abuzz, with fans applauding her dedication and talent. "What a season! Ilona took the competition by storm, and her chemistry with Alan was undeniable!" tweeted one enthusiastic fan.

Post-finale, Maher was quick to express her gratitude to her partner, calling Bersten a "forever friend" on her Instagram. The two have become quite the duo, not just on the dance floor but off it too. Maher is also keeping her options open after her reality TV stint, hinting during an appearance on 'Good Morning America' that she'd consider being the next 'Bachelorette'—if the right conditions are met. Who wouldn’t want to see this dynamic athlete mixing it up in reality dating?

Fun fact: Dancing with the Stars has seen several athletes from various sports join its ranks over the years, but few have made as significant an impact as Ilona. From tackling on the rugby field to twirling under the disco ball, Maher's journey is one for the books! And did you know that rugby was absent from the Olympics for over 100 years before it returned as a sevens format in 2016? This dynamic game continues to grow in popularity, especially with stars like Maher paving the way for future female athletes!