Who would’ve imagined that an Olympic bronze medalist who once led the U.S. women’s rugby team would waltz her way into the finals of a dance competition? Well, Ilona Maher has done just that! Proving her versatility and charm, she’s now gearing up for the grand finale of

Dancing with the Stars alongside her partner, Alan Bersten. And while perfecting that all-important final routine, Ilona’s been making sure to sprinkle plenty of fun into the mix.

Recently, Ilona Maher took to Instagram to share a playful reel that had her fans laughing out loud. In the clip, she humorously mimicked giving choreography cues behind none other than Mandy Moore—the legendary choreographer behind Taylor Swift’s iconic Eras Tour. Ilona enthusiastically gestured along as Mandy delivered instructions and counts, poking fun at herself with the caption, “Here to help the iconic choreographer @nopenother in whatever way I can @dancingwiththestars,” while the reel itself cheekily read, “Gets one 10 this season and thinks I can choreograph.” But now, as she strides toward the grand finale, Ilona has made sure to drop a confident confession, turning heads along the way!

Ilona Maher drops a confession!

On November 24, Ilona Maher hopped onto Instagram to drop a reel that had fans buzzing. In the video, she’s seen intently watching her dance partner, Alan Bersten, on a screen as he practices his moves for the finale. Her caption? Pure fire: “One thing @alanbersten is gonna do is serve @dancingwiththestars.” And honestly, Ilona’s confidence in Alan is unmatched. She’s hyped and ready for him to bring all the heat and dazzle to the finale floor. If there’s one thing the duo has proven, it’s that they know how to steal the spotlight!

Last week, Ilona Maher and her dance partner Alan Bersten lit up the stage with a fiery Paso Doble, performed to the orchestral version of Unholy by Sam Smith. The judges were impressed, showering the duo with positive feedback. Bruno complimented their performance but encouraged Ilona to channel more Flamenco flair into her movements.

Carrie Ann highlighted Ilona Maher’s incredible growth throughout the competition, while Derek’s admiration culminated in a standing ovation, calling their routine “intentional, sharp, and deliberate.” The pair wrapped up their first dance with a solid 28 out of 30. The magic didn’t stop there. For their second routine, Ilona and Alan delivered a breathtaking Viennese Waltz to Golden Hour by JVKE, leaving the judges in awe. Bruno praised its flow and vulnerability, while Carrie Ann, deeply moved, confessed she felt “honored” to witness the performance, even saying it had “changed her life.”

Derek was equally captivated, describing it as “delicate and graceful.” Their stunning act earned perfect 10s from Bruno and Carrie Ann and a 9 from Derek, scoring an almost flawless 29 out of 30. Now, with the finale in sight, Ilona Maher has taken a moment to reflect on her journey, sharing her heartfelt thoughts as she prepares for one last dance under the spotlight.

Maher reflects on her journey!

Yes, you heard it right! Just a few weeks ago, as Dancing with the Stars hit the monumental 500th episode milestone, Ilona Maher took a reflective pause to soak it all in. In an honest and heartfelt chat with Forbes, Ilona shared how her journey on the show has been nothing short of transformative. She confessed that stepping onto the dance floor was like stepping into the unknown, a complete contrast to her comfort zone on the rugby field. “For years now, I’ve been playing rugby in my comfort zone—something that I’m so good at, that I’m so powerful at,” she admitted. But in the world of ballroom dancing? It’s been a whole new game, one that’s tested her in ways she never imagined.

Ilona’s story is one of sheer grit and determination. From shining on the Olympic stage in Rio to a stellar performance in Tokyo, where she helped Team USA snag their first-ever bronze medal in rugby, her journey has been a series of triumphant highs. Yet, trading her cleats for dancing shoes wasn’t just about personal growth—it was about sending a message. As a strong, athletic woman, Ilona wanted to champion body positivity and challenge stereotypes, showing the world that beauty and grace come in many forms.

The dance floor hasn’t been all glitz and glamour for Ilona; it’s been a season filled with hurdles and hard-earned progress. Judges’ critiques often left her in tears, and there were moments when the leaderboard wasn’t kind. But through it all, Ilona has danced with purpose. “People are loving to see a girl like me move,” she said during a candid Good Morning America interview, adding that she dances not just for herself but for the young girls who see themselves in her.

With her partner, Alan Bersten, she’s found a bond that radiates on the dance floor. Alan’s unwavering support has been a cornerstone of her confidence, “supports me and makes me feel beautiful.” And Ilona? She’s redefined what’s possible, becoming the first woman to lift a male pro dancer on the show—a bold statement of strength and elegance combined. “At times, it feels like it’s not just for me,” she explained, “it’s for others.”