Olympian Maher Owns Her SI Swimsuit Moment

Olympian Ilona Maher recently participated in the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit show during Miami Swim Week. Following her runway walk in a blue and white striped bathing suit, Maher faced criticism in online comments, with some deeming her look "unflattering."

Responding via a TikTok video posted on June 4, Maher directly addressed the negative remarks. She clarified that she chose the swimsuit herself and felt confident, even highlighting aspects like "side titty." Maher questioned whether the "unflattering" label was a reaction to the suit or simply to a larger body existing in swimwear.

Maher, who previously appeared as a cover star in the 2024 digital issue and in the 2025 print edition of SI Swimsuit, used the moment to promote body positivity. She emphasized her decision to show up and perform confidently, even if she didn't feel it was her "best look." Maher urged her followers to "wear the suit" and embrace the idea that "if you got a body, you got a bikini body."