Ilona Maher has opened up on why she stepped away from rugby at the height of her popularity, while confirming she is now eager to pull her boots back on and return to the sport.
The USA international became one of rugby’s biggest global stars following the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she helped the Eagles claim a historic bronze medal before enjoying a successful spell with Bristol Bears and representing the United States at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
Since then, Maher has focused on television appearances, modelling, her hugely successful podcast and a string of commercial partnerships, but insists her time away from the game has only strengthened her desire to return.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Ilona Maher eager to get back on the pitch
Speaking to People, Maher admitted she is looking forward to returning to a more familiar routine after months away from elite rugby.
“I’m excited to get back to rugby and have some normalcy,” she said.
The 28-year-old explained that the whirlwind following her Olympic success took her in a different direction, but rugby has always remained at the centre of her plans.
“I’ve had this amazing opportunity to do so many things because of rugby,” Maher said. “Now I’m excited to slip back into my jersey and step into my cleats.”
Why Maher stepped away
Rather than walking away permanently, Maher’s break came after an extraordinary period in which she became one of the most recognisable faces in world rugby.
Her Olympic exploits catapulted her into mainstream fame, leading to appearances on Dancing with the Stars, magazine covers, television interviews and major sponsorship deals.
The relentless schedule meant rugby temporarily took a back seat, with Maher admitting she is now looking forward to the structure and routine that elite sport provides.
Los Angeles 2028 firmly in her sights
Although Maher has yet to announce exactly when she will return to competitive action, all signs point towards a comeback with the USA Sevens programme as preparations begin for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
USA Women’s Eagles Sevens head coach Jack Hanratty recently revealed the squad expects Maher to ease her way back into the programme over the coming months.
With a home Olympics just two years away, Maher’s return would be a huge boost for USA Rugby as they look to build on their historic bronze medal success in Paris.
For fans, the message is clear: Ilona Maher’s time away from rugby was never the end of the story—it was simply a pause before the next chapter.
The 10 Most Followed Rugby Players on Instagram (2026)
10. Marcus Smith — @marcussmith10
Instagram followers: ~340k
Smith has become one of rugby’s fastest-growing stars online thanks to his exciting playing style and strong Gen-Z appeal.
Instagram: @marcussmith10
9. Maro Itoje — @maroitoje
Instagram followers: ~352K
Itoje combines elite rugby with fashion, activism, and leadership, making him one of England’s most marketable stars.
Instagram: @maroitoje
8. Louis Rees-Zammit — @reeszammit
Instagram followers: ~448K
The Welsh speedster built a huge following through highlight-reel tries, fashion content, and his crossover move toward the NFL.
Instagram: @reeszammit
7. Quade Cooper — @quadecooper
Instagram followers: ~539K
One of rugby’s original social-media personalities, Cooper’s flashy style and outspoken personality helped him build a huge audience.
Instagram: @quadecooper
6. Cheslin Kolbe — @cheslinkolbe
Instagram followers: ~792k
Kolbe’s electric footwork and viral highlights made him one of the Springboks’ biggest global stars.
Instagram: @cheslinkolbe
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
