Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher is embracing vulnerability after shedding tears on Dancing with the Stars. Competing in season 33 with partner Alan Bersten, Maher, 28, broke down following a misstep during her jive performance on October 8.
Reflecting on the moment, Maher shared with PEOPLE, “It felt very right in the moment. I don’t feel bad for crying.” Maher, who is known for her resilience, explained that her emotional response was a culmination of stress and the rigorous demands of the show.
“I didn’t perform how I knew I could,” Maher admitted, highlighting her high standards and drive to improve. “It was hard, and I think it was just everything coming together.”
The Olympian revealed that the demanding DWTS schedule left little time for recovery. “It was a really tough night,” she said, describing the quick turnaround between interviews and training. “I cried in all the interviews, I cried at training—like I hadn’t gotten it all out yet.”
Maher, who won bronze with the U.S. women’s rugby sevens team in Paris this summer, noted the challenges of balancing her competitive spirit with the physical and emotional demands of the show. Despite the struggle, she remains committed to the process and is determined to improve each week.
In a video shared on Instagram, Maher addressed her fans, thanking them for their support and promising, “I will get better, I swear.”
Bersten, 30, also took to Instagram to praise Maher, saying, “It takes so much strength to be vulnerable. You have shown me just how much you care, and I am so grateful to have you as my partner. You are an inspiration to millions, especially me.”
With resilience and determination, Maher continues to move forward in the competition, embracing the challenges and growing with each step.
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