Ilona Maher Goes Viral on TikTok for Body Positivity Message

Ilona Maher, a standout player for Team USA's rugby sevens, has gained significant attention for her advocacy of body positivity, particularly following her team's historic bronze medal win against Australia. This victory marks a milestone as it is the first medal ever secured by American women’s rugby sevens. Maher, 27, has utilized her platform on social media to promote the message that all body types can excel in sports, a theme she emphasizes in her posts. As the Olympics commenced, Maher shared a powerful message on Instagram, urging viewers to appreciate the diverse body types represented in the Games. She stated, “All body types are beautiful and can do amazing things,” encouraging individuals to see themselves reflected in these athletes. Her positive message has resonated widely, garnering an enthusiastic response from her followers. However, Maher has also faced criticism from online trolls who have targeted her weight and Body Mass Index (BMI). In a recent TikTok video, she addressed these comments directly, revealing her BMI of 29.3 and highlighting her impressive athleticism, which includes a body fat percentage of 15%. This statistic is notably lower than the average healthy range for non-athletic women. The Olympics serve as a unique platform to showcase a variety of body types, particularly among female athletes. Maher’s advocacy not only challenges societal norms but also celebrates the strength and diversity of women in sports, encouraging a broader acceptance of different body shapes and sizes.