Ilona Maher was already a widely recognized Olympic athlete before joining the 33rd season of Dancing With the Stars. The rugby player competed in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2024 Paris Olympics, which put her on the map for a career in the spotlight. Now that she’s an advocate for body positivity, Ilona has become a major name.
Since she’s also a social media influencer, Ilona has enlightened fans with messages promoting self-love. In one of her most famous Instagram posts, the athlete wrote to women “with big shoulders.”
“You are not undesirable You are not built like a linebacker. You are not manly,” she wrote. “You are not unattractive. You are beautiful. You are imposing. You are powerful. You are magnificent. Put your shoulders back, wear your head high, and walk into any room like you own the place.”
Find out more about Ilona’s career and where her net worth stands, below.
Who Is Ilona Maher?
Ilona is a ruby player from Vermont. She started playing the sport as a teenager and competed in college while attending Quinnipiac University.
After her collegiate career, Ilona was selected to represent the United States at the 2020 Olympic Games, which were actually held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though Ilona didn’t medal at the 2020 games, she helped Team USA win bronze at the 2024 Olympics.
Afterward, Ilona was selected to compete on season 33 of Dancing With the Stars.
What Is Ilona Maher’s Net Worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Ilona has a net worth ranging between $1 million to $3 million, according to Yahoo! Entertainment. She earns money from endorsements as an athlete. Now that she’s made a name for herself in Hollywood, Ilona’s career has just begun.
Did Ilona Maher Win Dancing With the Stars 2024?
No, Ilona did not take home the Mirrorball Trophy on DWTS. However, she came in second place behind Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson.
In a November 2024 Instagram post, Ilona reflected on her experience on the dance floor with her dance partner, Alan Bersten.
“Thank you for everything, guys. You voting are the reason we got to 2nd place,” she wrote alongside a selfie with Alan. “Of course, it’s no first, but honestly, we won in many other ways. So lucky to have been partnered together and shared this amazing journey. We will remember this forever.”