Rugby-American Maher says her popularity was born out financial necessity


Athletics - 2024 TCS New York City Marathon - New York, United States - November 3, 2024 American rugby player Ilona Maher watches the marathon REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/ File Photo

MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - American Ilona Maher is arguably the world's most popular rugby player, boasting the largest social media following of anyone in the sport, but the 28-year-old said her focus on growing her social media profile was born out of financial necessity.

Maher's popularity soared during the Paris Olympics, where she helped the U.S. to bronze in rugby sevens. Following the Games, she was featured in Sports Illustrated's swimsuit issue, and last week finished runner-up on the U.S. show "Dancing With the Stars."

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