Ilona Maher Aims for 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup with RFU Support

Web Desk — U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher has dropped a strong hint about her plans to compete in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup following crucial support from England’s Rugby Football Union (RFU).

Maher recently clinched bronze with the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics and expressed her ambitions on Siya Kolisi’s Instagram account. She declared her intent to compete at the next World Cup, but her path to the tournament involved a significant intervention by the RFU.

RFU Backs Visa Application
The RFU has confirmed its role in facilitating Maher’s plans, including endorsing her visa application to join England’s Premier 15s league, PWR.

In a statement to BBC Sport, an RFU spokesperson explained:

“The RFU provided the governing body endorsement for Maher in support of her visa application to play in England. Any applicants need to be ‘internationally established [and] whose employment will make a significant contribution to the development of their sport at the highest level in the UK.’”

Maher’s Impressive Rugby Career
Ilona Maher made her Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games and has since become a key player for the U.S. rugby sevens team. A two-time Pan American Games medalist, Maher added a bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics to her achievements.

Beyond Rugby: A Multi-Talented Star
Off the field, Maher continues to make waves. She was featured on the digital cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit for the August 2024 edition, showcasing her athletic physique in a shoot captured by Ben Watts.

Additionally, Maher competed in the latest season of Dancing With the Stars. Partnered with Alan Bersten, she finished as a runner-up in the finale, with Joey Graziadei and Jenna Johnson taking home the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy for season 33.

Future Prospects
With her sights set firmly on the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, Maher’s journey reflects her determination to excel both on and off the rugby pitch. Backed by the RFU and celebrated for her athletic and artistic achievements, she remains a versatile and inspiring figure in sports.