Ilona Maher makes her feelings known for dance partner Alan Bersten as choreographer helps Olympian in embracing strength and femininity during DWTS

Ilona Maher, one of the best-known American rugby players, has often used her platform to advocate for body positivity. Recently, the Olympic medalist opened up about how her Dancing With The Stars partner Alan Bersten helped her embrace her femininity while feeling strong on the show.

Maher first gained popularity during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, when she shared videos giving fans an inside look into an athlete’s life at the Olympic village. In 2024, the American skyrocketed to fame as she led Team USA to a historic bronze at the Paris Olympics.

After her campaign at the Games, Maher appeared on the reality TV show Dancing With The Stars, partnered with Alan Bersten. The duo were a fan-favorite pair, and often choreographed their dances to display the rugby star's strength, including a move where she picked Bersten up onto her shoulder.

Reflecting on her time at DWTS and her partnership with Bersten, Ilona Maher told Parade:

“What's so cool about having a partner like Alan, because though I did the things like lifting him and things that aren't considered to be for a woman or feminine, (but) I still felt very feminine and beautiful whenever I did it. And I didn't feel like it took away from who I am or made me feel a certain way, I think it (was) just a celebration of my strength more than anything.”

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Alan Bersten calls Ilona Maher ‘a friend for life’ as he reflects on his 2024

Alan Bersten highlights his bond with Ilona Maher (Image Source: Getty)

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten developed a close bond during their time on the show. The pair regularly put on impressive performances on the stage and finished as runner-ups achieving a high score of 30/30 for their final performance, a freestyle to the song Femininomenon.

Looking back on his 2024, Bersten called the year special, while highlighting his home with Maher, writing on Instagram:

“I can't put into words how special 2024 was for me! Not only did I have the best season ever with @ilonamaher and made a friend for life!! I also got @jeffbersten and truthfully I don't know how I got so lucky. I am so grateful and thankful for this incredible year and all the joy it's brought me! I want to thank everyone who's been there for me and just want to wish everyone reading this a very happy new year! 2025 is going to be the best year yet!”

After their successful campaign on season 33 of Dancing With The Stars, Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten will reunite for the DWTS Tour on April 5, with the former set to appear as a special guest.