Ilona Maher is on top of the world. Just three months after Maher, 28, led Team U.S.A. to its first medal in women's rugby at the Paris Olympics-and took social media by storm with witty TikToks from the village-the newly minted America's Sweetheart is taking on more challenges in season 33 of Dancing With the Stars. "I think when people say America's Sweetheart, I'm like, 'Me, the girl who plays rugby? Okay, I'll take it," she says. "But I don't think I'd be what most people think of a tall, broad-shouldered rugby player-as the sweetheart of the country."
The middle of three sisters (Olivia, 30, who is also Maher's manager, and Adrianna, 25), the athlete says she felt "socially awkward" growing up and "never fully learned how to make a friend." She also remembers that, while she's lauded for her body-positive videos now, she felt plenty of insecurity. "I had so many moments of me crying to my mom because I was a bigger girl.""
This story is from the November 11, 2024 edition of People US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 11, 2024 edition of People US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Janelle James
THE EMMY NOMINEE, 45, STARS IN ABC'S HIT SERIES ABBOTT ELEMENTARY
THE G.R.O.A.T
TO CELEBRATE PEOPLE'S 50TH BIRTHDAY, WE GATHERED THE ALL-STAR DISHES OUR READERS AND EDITORS LOVED THE MOST
Shailene Woodley Spills the Tea on Aaron Rodgers Split
Shailene Woodley is offering rare insight into her breakup with ex-fiancé Aaron Rodgers.`
Jay-Z Fires Back at Claim He Raped 13-Year-Old Girl With Diddy
Jay-Z is speaking out after being accused of drugging and raping a 13-year-old girl in a civil lawsuit that also names Sean “Diddy” Combs as a defendant.
Katie Holmes Denies Suri Inherited Trust Fund From Tom Cruise
Katie Holmes is setting the record straight on reports about her daughter Suri's inheritance.
PARIS JACKSON All About Her Engagement
Wedding bells will soon be ringing for Paris Jackson.
Amber Heard Is Expecting Baby No. 2!
Next year will bring a big change for Amber Heard.
Barry Keoghan Responds to Rumors Amid 'Break' With Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan have gone their separate ways.
OLYMPIC GYMNAST STEPHEN NEDOROSCIK 'I Never Let This Stop Me'
DESPITE TWO EYE CONDITIONSTHE MEDALIST-AND DWTS FINALIST-IS STILL A WINNER
AUNJANUE ELLIS-TAYLOR A Film Star Finds Her Power
THE OSCAR-NOMINATED ACTRESS FIGHTS FOR ROLES THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCEAND STAYS TRUE TO HER SOUTHERN ROOTS