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.