With Women’s History Month here, Adidas has added a history-making athlete to its roster: rugby superstar Ilona Maher.
In a statement, Adidas said it will provide Maher with its top-tier apparel and footwear to support her game as part of this multiyear partnership.
“Throughout discussions with Adidas, their passion for rugby was clear and the pursuit to deliver only the best for athletes playing their sport. The Adidas team really show their support for the women’s game at all levels,” Maher said in a statement. “I can’t wait to work with Adidas to inspire a whole new generation to pick up a rugby ball, while also understanding that strength and power is beautiful.”
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Adidas confirmed Maher will wear its lightweight Adizero RS15 rugby boot, which was made with multidirectional speed in mind. However, Maher stated she is excited to reveal “a new boot for the women’s game” in the coming months.
2024 was a breakout year for Maher, a two-time Olympian. Most notably, during the Paris Olympics, Maher led Team USA to a bronze medal win, marking the first time the United States has medaled in rugby 7s.
Maher took up the sport at age 17, and earned the MA Sorensen Award while at Quinnipiac University in 2017 for National Player of the Year.
Aside from her athletic prowess, Maher has become one of the most beloved stars in sports. She has 4.9 million followers on Instagram, who engage with the conversations Maher puts forth regarding women’s representation in sports and body positivity. What’s more, she further endeared herself with the masses during her appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” last year, finishing as the runner-up for the season.
“Ilona is not only a world-class athlete, but also a phenomenal role model,” Adidas general manager for special sports Kerryn Foster said in a statement. “Her style of play and sheer dominance put her among the top rugby players globally. Her work off the pitch highlighting important issues around women’s participation in sport, makes her an inspiration for the next generation of rugby players. We’re thrilled to partner with Ilona and support her on every step of the journey.”