Ilona Maher didn’t just show up to the 2025 ESPYs—she stormed in, wrapped in less fabric than a beach towel and more confidence than most men can summon in a lifetime.
The 28-year-old Olympic rugby player made her ESPY debut in a black gown that redefined “naked dressing.” The plunging neckline dropped below the navel, the back was completely open, and side boob came standard. Maher paired it with strappy black heels, gold square hoops, a slicked-back bun, and red lipstick that hit like a finishing move.
It’s her first time nominated—Best Breakthrough Athlete—and she’s earned the moment. After competing in Tokyo, Maher returned to the Olympic stage in Paris last year and left with a bronze medal. But it wasn’t just her performance on the pitch that turned heads.
She became a breakout star online, turning TikTok into her second sport. Between Olympic Village dispatches and unapologetic commentary, she turned viral moments into a full-time presence.
By May, she was walking the runway for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit at Miami Swim Week. And in true Maher fashion, she did it while on her period—then told the world. “Men think they’re tough,” she posted, “but they’ll never do Miami Swim Week wearing only bikinis while on their period like I did.”
At the ESPYs, she brought that same defiance, dressed not for approval but impact. A medal in hand, a headline on her chest, and zero apologies.
Last modified: July 22, 2025
