From Paris 2024 and the SI Swimsuit cover to “Dancing with the Stars” and a contract with the Bristol Bears, Ilona Maher’s life has changed dramatically in less than a year. She tells CNN how it feels to become “America’s sweetheart.

Ilona Maher, an Olympic rugby player, has recently sparked controversy following her interview with CNN's Christina Macfarlane. When Maher denied experiencing imposter syndrome, Macfarlane persisted in questioning her,

Ilona Maher became a quick international sensation at the 2024 Paris Olympics thanks to her relatable social media videos and the United States women's rugby team winning a bronze medal, the first Team USA rugby Olympic medal in history.

You automatically assume I must not feel that I am deserving of where I’m at? ... You think they’re asking NFL players, male politicians if they have imposter syndrome?’

Fans have come to the defense of Team USA rugby fan favorite Ilona Maher on social media following an awkward exchange during an interview with a CNN anchor.

The USA Eagles player is also not worried about a potential U.S. ban on TikTok, a platform she has amassed over three million followers on.

Maher included a video of herself holding up a bag of ice to her face. She also lip-synched, “Been better, Carrie Ann.” (The athlete previously said the phrase last year after Dancing With The Stars judge Inaba asked why Maher was crying after she received tough feedback on her performance.)

U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher has celebrated her first start for the Bristol Bears by powering over for a try in a 41-31 victory at the Exeter Chiefs.

U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher is set to make her first start for the Bristol Bears on January 12 at the Exeter Chiefs.

Interviewer asks Ilona Maher how she deals with imposter syndrome. Source: CNN