PICTURES: Modern rugby icon meets Super Rugby legend
It’s not an everyday occurrence, but when USA centre Ilona Maher bumps into New Zealand star Ardie Savea, it has to be documented.
Maher, who is now the world’s most popular player on social media, with more than three million followers on TikTok, had the opportunity to spend time with recently crowned Super Rugby Player of the Year Ardie Savea.
The USA Eagles are in Auckland to face the Black Ferns in the final round of the Pacific Four Series.
New Zealand shares top spot on the table with Canada, meaning it could come down to bonus points and points differential should both sides emerge victorious this weekend.
The Eagles are bottom of the table after a tight loss to the Wallaroos in round two, but they hope some personnel shifts will help them move up the table.
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The USA star recently chatted to the crew of the Kick Offs and Kick Ons podcast, where she discussed the upcoming World Cup, her social media work, the transitions from sevens to 15s and the state of the women’s game.
“I started social media to get myself and my sport out there, and to see it grow like this, it’s kind of reaping the benefits.
“We all want eyes on our game, we need the people in seats, we need to get more fans to buy the tickets so that we can make more money ourselves.”
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New tickets for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 are now available, with prices starting at £10 for adults and £5 for children. Buy now!
