Ilona Maher is having an unforgettable year. After securing a historic bronze medal at the Paris Olympics and winning over television audiences on Dancing with the Stars, the powerhouse athlete is now making major waves in the fashion and modeling world.
Stepping onto the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway, Maher proved she knows exactly how to command a crowd. The former rugby union player completely owned the catwalk, showing off her athletic frame in a bold white-and-blue striped bikini. The suit featured intricate cutouts along the sides, front, and waist, blending a sporty edge with a highly confident, sexy touch.
But she didn’t stop there. The reality TV star and athlete shut down the runway a second time, stepping out in a daring, plunging backless swimsuit. The sleek, stylish piece dipped into a deep V-cut neckline, anchored by a delicate tie-up detail at the waist, adding an extra layer of appeal. The open-back design gave the swimsuit a beautifully sensual feel, while Maher accessorized the look perfectly with a long gold pendant, bringing a subtle touch of luxury to the stage.
It didn’t take long for the internet to take notice. As photos and videos of her walk circulated (with coverage popping up across pop culture outlets like Reality Tea), fans flooded the comments sections to praise her look. Supporters were absolutely mesmerized by her beauty and confidence, overwhelmingly hailing her as a “Greek goddess” and a “glowing goddess.”
For Maher’s millions of followers, this runway moment was about more than just fashion. As an athlete who constantly promotes body positivity and self-love, I find it incredibly inspiring to see a strong, muscular woman fully embracing her body on one of the biggest modeling stages in the world. She isn’t just wearing the swimsuits—she is actively changing the standard of what a runway model looks like.