Ilona Maher Leads Team USA in Rugby World Cup Opener
Ilona Maher, a well-known name in rugby, has landed a spot in the starting lineup for the United States’ opening game of the Women’s Rugby World Cup against England.
This is a huge moment for Maher as she shifts from rugby sevens to the 15-a-side format.
She’s gained attention not just for her skills, but also for her lively social media presence and her work promoting body positivity.
The match kicks off at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland, U.K., and you can catch it on CBSSN in the U.S. or BBC if you’re in the U.K.
Ilona Maher: From Rugby Sevens to 15-a-Side
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Maher can play centre or winger, and she’s about to make her first World Cup appearance in the 15s format.
She represented the U.S. in rugby sevens at the Olympics, even helping the team win bronze in Paris last year.
Switching to the longer 15-a-side game is a big leap—the matches run 80 minutes instead of the quick 14 minutes in sevens.
It’s a new kind of challenge for the 29-year-old, and she seems ready to take it on.
Joining the Bristol Bears
Back in December 2024, Maher signed a three-month contract with the Bristol Bears of Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR).
She made this move to improve her chances of making the World Cup squad.
During her stint with the Bears, she played in eight games and scored four tries.
Her debut drew a record crowd—over 9,000 fans showed up, which says a lot about her influence in rugby circles.
Impact Beyond the Field
Maher’s not just about rugby—she’s had a huge impact online too.
She’s got a combined 8.8 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, making her the most-followed player in the sport.
Her viral moment came during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, and she’s used her platform since then to push for body positivity and encourage others.
Forbes even put her on their 30 Under 30 list in December, recognizing her for changing the game both on and off the field.
A Role Model for Many
Maher’s shaken up rugby, especially in a sport that’s often seen as male-dominated.
She’s earned praise from top men’s players, who’ve encouraged her to keep going.
She’s proud of what she’s accomplished and the changes she’s sparked, not just in rugby but in how people think about body image and self-acceptance.
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USA’s World Cup Journey
The United States team, known as the Eagles, has a proud history in the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
They won the first tournament in 1991 and finished second in 1994 and 1998.
Australian coach Sione Fukofuka has led the team through tough selection rounds and training camps at Mt St Mary’s and Loughborough University to get ready for the competition.
Last time out, the Eagles lost in the quarter-finals to Canada in 2022.
Facing the World Number 1
England, who currently hold the top world ranking, will be a tough first test for the U.S.
They finished as runners-up in the 2022 World Cup, falling to New Zealand in the final.
England’s known for their strength, precision, and confidence, so it’s bound to be a tough match.
Coach Fukofuka believes in the Eagles, pointing to their strong set piece and determined defense as possible ways to put England under pressure.
Event Details
The opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup takes place at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light.
Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m. ET (7:30 p.m. BST) this Friday, and you can watch live on CBSSN in the U.S. or BBC in the U.K.
If you’re in the U.S. and want to stream the game, Fubo has you covered with a $30 discount.
Looking Ahead
The Women’s Rugby World Cup is underway, and Ilona Maher has everyone watching. The United States team brings together seasoned players and promising newcomers, which could shake things up in the tournament.
Maher’s story—starting in rugby sevens and now taking on the 15-a-side game—feels genuinely inspiring. It really highlights how women’s rugby keeps gaining momentum and respect worldwide.
Want more updates on Ilona Maher and the Women’s Rugby World Cup? Check out the latest at the New York Times.