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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Martin Pengelly in Washington

US rugby star Ilona Maher hailed as ‘feminist trailblazer’ for swimsuit shoot

Ilona Maher in action at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Ilona Maher in action at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Photograph: Christophe Petit-Tesson/EPA

Ilona Maher, the US women’s center who lit up the Paris Olympics and became the most followed rugby player in the world, was hailed as a “feminist trailblazer” after becoming a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model.

“Ilona Maher gracing the cover of our September digital issue is more than just a celebration of her athletic achievements – it’s a powerful statement,” said MJ Day, editor in chief of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, on Thursday.

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