Olympian Ilona Maher Praised After Winning Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover

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Ilona Maher appeared on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit digital edition for September.

Maher has gained recognition for helping the U.S. women’s rugby team win their first bronze medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, alongside her 2.3 million TikTok followers. The 28-year-old first rose to internet fame at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics for her viral looks at the Olympic Village, including her hilarious review of the cardboard beds and her lust for fellow Olympic athletes.

According to the publication’s editor-in-chief, MJ Day, Maher’s cover debut marks “a shift in the narrative” for them.

“Ilona’s presence on our cover symbolizes a shift in the narrative — one that celebrates not only physical prowess, but also the courage to lead, inspire and advocate for change,” Day said in the issue. “We couldn’t be more excited and inspired by this revolutionary athlete and feminist trailblazer!”

He continued: “Having Ilona Maher on the cover of our September digital issue is more than just a celebration of her athletic achievements — it’s a powerful statement. Ilona is a modern role model of strength, conviction and authenticity, while also showcasing the indomitable spirit of an inspiring human being. Her ability to break barriers, both on and off the field, speaks deeply to women everywhere.”

Since it was announced that the Olympian had earned the cover, many people have been commenting on both Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter, to praise the decision and state that Maher should be the future standard for cover models and should be given a “print cover.”

“Good for her! She’s a great role model, she has a fantastic personality and she’s tough as nails. This is the type of woman you want to see on these covers!” read one comment on Instagram.

Another commenter agreed, writing, “This is awesome…but make sure you include her in the next print issue…she’s so amazing and deserves a cover on the newsstand!”

Other commenters highlighted Maher’s body type and how seeing someone like her on the cover of a magazine would inspire young girls and women who feel like they don’t fit “typical beauty standards.”

“I literally forwarded this to my very athletic granddaughter who thinks she looks too big!?!?!?” began one comment. “I told her ‘THIS is the beauty that you are, look how gorgeous and strong she is, read these comments from people who are in love with her body.’ She agreed with her grandma….”

The Olympian spoke about her body during her cover story, explaining that she’s been called “manly or something.” “But I’ve never felt that way. But I don’t think you’re going to bully the girl who you could probably beat up in a rage. I think it’s great that (rugby) showed me what I can do. It showed me how capable my body is and that it’s not just a tool to look at and objectify.”

Maher added that to be the athlete she is, her body requires other qualifications beyond being slim. “If my cellulite was any lower in that perfect range, I wouldn’t be doing what I can do,” she told the outlet.

“I wouldn’t be as powerful because of it (so) I really think sport has been very helpful.”