Ilona Maher's dance partner Alan Bersten makes his feelings known for the Olympian after runners-up finish at Dancing With the Stars

Ilona Maher's dance partner, Alan Bersten, shared a heartfelt message for the Olympian after the conclusion of Dancing With the Stars. The two finished second after an incredible run throughout the season of the dance reality show.

Ilona Maher participated in Dancing With the Stars right after winning the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics. The American rugby player had spoken about not having prior experience as a dancer. However, she showed steady improvements throughout her performances in the dance reality show, leading to a great rise in her popularity among fans.

Maher and Alan Bersten's performance in the finale of the 33rd season of the dance reality show earned great praise from fans as well as three perfect tens from the judges. They were ultimately the runners-up of the season and missed the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy by a whisker.

Alan Bersten took to Instagram to pen a heartfelt note for Maher after the conclusion of the show and expressed his gratitude for being able to perform alongside her in the season.

"I am so incredibly thankful for this season! @ilonamaher you are truly remarkable! I am so lucky to have been partnered with you!! You’re my friend for life! @dancingwiththestarsis the best show on TV and it’s a family I’m so lucky to be a part of! I hope everyone has a beautiful Thanksgiving," he wrote.

---

Ilona Maher on finishing second on Dancing With the Stars

Ilona Maher In Los Angeles - October 07, 2024 - Source: Getty

Ilona Maher took to Instagram to reflect on her journey as well as her second-place finish at Dancing With the Stars. The Olympic medalist expressed her gratitude for being able to perform on such a global stage and thanked her fans for their unwavering support throughout the season, which ultimately culminated in this result.

Moreover, she revealed how the journey of participating in the show with Alan Bersten has been very memorable for her.

"Thank you for everything, guys. You voting are the reason we got to 2nd place. Of course, it’s no first but honestly we won in many other ways. So lucky to have been partnered together and shared this amazing journey. We will remember this forever. Love, Alan and Ilona," she wrote.

Moreover, Ilona Maher revealed the profound impact of her dance partner Alan Bersten during the show. She expressed how his patience as well as constant encouragement helped her to develop the confidence to perform at such a big stage despite having no previous experience as a dancer.