Challenging Norms and Defying Expectations: The Rising American Star Set to Face Increased Pressure

This Saturday afternoon in Canberra, Michaela Leonard will be aiming to put Ilona Maher on the ground during their showdown.

However, the Wallaroos and Leonard have been the very definition of gracious hosts this week, welcoming rugby legends to the chilly capital.

Among the famed guests is social media sensation and US star Maher.

The 28-year-old left a lasting impression on Australian fans in Paris last year when the USA sevens team pulled off a stunning upset to seize Olympic Games bronze.

Since then, Maher has transitioned to the XV format ahead of this year’s Rugby World Cup, preparing to play just her fourth Test in round two of the Pacific Four Series.

As an outside centre, she stands out as one of rugby’s most marketable faces, having wowed audiences on Dancing With The Stars, walked the red carpet at the Emmys, and posed for Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit edition.

Brett Robinson, the chairman of World Rugby, praised Maher, highlighting her influence whilst announcing a new Rugby World Cup deal with Stan and Nine in Sydney this week.

“A rugby league player named Reece Walsh was boasting about launching a YouTube platform and accumulating nearly 500,000 followers,” Robinson remarked.

“I just want Reece to know that Ilona Maher, who represents the US Eagles and Bristol Bears, has over four million followers globally, which showcases the reach of our sport and the bond, especially with the women in our game.”

Leonard, a former captain and now starting at lock for Australia at GIO Stadium, acknowledged Maher’s influence on the game.

“Ilona’s presence in town is extremely meaningful for rugby and especially for women’s rugby,” Leonard explained to reporters.

“She’s done amazing work in breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes surrounding female athletes, demonstrating strength and power while maintaining her femininity and intelligence.”

“She serves as a fantastic role model for girls and boys alike around the world, changing perceptions about how we view individuals.”

“Experiencing someone like her and recognising her influence is genuinely thrilling.

“To have the chance for the Wallaroos to showcase their skills against them while silencing them on the field will be a great opportunity for fans. So, I urge everyone to come along and support us.”

Both the Wallaroos and Eagles faced defeats in their opening matches of the tournament.

World champions New Zealand triumphed over Australia with a score of 38-12 in Newcastle, while Canada narrowly beat their rivals USA 26-14 in Kansas City.

Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp has maintained Charlotte Caslick on the right wing, despite Stan Sport’s Allana Ferguson recommending that the star from Sevens should be positioned at fullback instead.

Yapp has consequently brought back teenager Caitlyn Halse to the No.15 jersey and shifted Faitala Moleka back to No.10 in place of Tia Hinds.

Ruby Anderson, a teen backrower from Waratahs, is possibly set to make her Test debut as she has been included on the bench.

“We saw some encouraging signs last week that we can build on, while also addressing areas needing further focus,” Yapp said.

“The USA will provide us with another significant challenge this Saturday, and facing them ahead of the World Cup will be a crucial test to assess our readiness.”

“The Wallaroos haven’t played in Canberra since 2008, so the players are eagerly looking forward to competing at GIO Stadium for the first time.”

New Zealand will clash with Canada in the earlier fixture on Saturday (1:35 pm kickoff AEST), with both matches live on Stan Sport.