“So many times people forget, but I am a rugby player first.”
Social media sensation Ilona Maher – who has nearly nine million followers across her Instagram, TikTok and X channels – made clear before USA’s opening game against England that she wanted her rugby to do the talking.
“I am proud to do both but I do want to be known as a rugby player,” Maher told BBC Sport.
The 29-year-old has certainly done that, playing in every minute of USA’s World Cup campaign, making 163 metres and forcing three turnovers.
Despite finishing the tournament with a 60-0 win over Samoa, the United States failed to reach the knockout stages, with Australia going through on points difference after both sides played out a thrilling 31-31 draw in round two.
Maher’s team-mates might be heading home, but she is planning to stick around.
“It’s been amazing, England [as Rugby World Cup hosts] have really stepped up and done so much for women’s rugby and the opportunity to change it,” Maher said.
“We still have three more weeks of this! I hope all the girls get to take it to new heights. I’ll be watching all the games.
“It’s too cool to not go to the knockout stage of the World Cup.”
