Ilona Maher's dance partner Alan Bersten makes his feelings known for the Olympian with a heartfelt note as he reflects on their DWTS journey 

Ilona Maher's dance partner Alan Bersten penned a heartfelt note for the Olympic medalist as he reflected on his best memories from 2024. Bersten revealed that other than being a part of the famous dance reality show with Maher as a partner, he 'made a friend for life.'

Right after winning the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, Maher participated in Dancing With Stars. She said that she wanted to step out of her comfort zone and take up a new challenge after the quadrennial games. The 28-year-old partnered with Alan Bersten and impressed fans with her improvements as the season progressed.

The two finished as runners-up in the dance reality show and continued to entertain fans through their banter as well as training videos on social media. As 2024 came to an end, Alan Bersten took to Instagram on January 1 to reflect on his year.

Expressing gratitude for getting the opportunity to team up with Ilona Maher, Bersten also shed light on their friendship and close bond, writing:

"I can’t put into words how special 2024 was for me! Not only did I have the best season ever with @ilonamaher but made a friend for life!! I also got @jeffbersten and truthfully I don’t know how I got so lucky. Plus I travelled to England and went into a real phone booth. Who would have thought?!" he wrote.

"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! 🙏🏼" he added.

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Ilona Maher pens a heartfelt note for Alan Bersten

Ilona Maher makes an appearance during Bristol Bears v Leinster - Champions Cup Round 1 - Source: Getty

Ilona Maher penned a heartfelt note for Alan Bersten during the last week of Dancing With the Stars. The Olympic medalist called him the 'best partner' as she reflected on her memories from her time on the dance reality show. Thanking him for his help as she embarked on this journey of stepping out of her comfort zone to explore a new avenue, Maher wrote:

"I wanted to dedicate this dance to the best partner I could have hoped for on this show, Alan. This experience has been one I will remember for the rest of my life with fondness because of what you made it for me. It has not always been easy and I still can’t figure out how to finish my arms but every hour with you in the studio has been a pleasure. Let’s give it our all this week one last time," her caption read.

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten recently shared glimpses of their training sessions for the upcoming DWTS Tour and they are expected to charm fans with their performances in the upcoming months.