Ilona Maher, a prominent figure in U.S. women's rugby, is redefining strength and femininity while leveraging her substantial social media presence to promote the sport. With over 1.4 million Instagram followers and 1.6 million on TikTok, Maher's popularity has eclipsed that of established athletes like Katie Ledecky and Noah Lyles. She has successfully partnered with brands such as Secret and L'Oreal, and launched her skincare line, Medalist, aiming to create a sustainable career in a sport typically lacking financial rewards. Maher emphasizes the importance of visibility for women's sports, stating that social media enables athletes to connect with a broader audience and build their brands. As she competes in the Paris Olympics, her performances and social media engagement are poised to significantly elevate women's rugby's profile. Her efforts have already generated substantial interest, evidenced by a record crowd at the Stade de France during the tournament's opening day.