Ilona Maherthe Olympic rugby star who is celebrated both on the field and online for her humor and charisma, has recently hinted that she is interested in exploring reality television.

The 28-year-old, who shot to fame through her rugby skills and social media presence, is single and seemingly ready to hit the dating scene. After her performance on “Dancing with the Stars” on Tuesday, October 29, Ilona talked on national television about her love life and the possibility of looking for romance.

When asked if she would consider taking on the role of the next leading lady “The Bachelorette,” Ilona Maher did not hold back.

Could Ilona Maher be the next ‘Bachelorette’?

In an interview with “Good Morning America,” she playfully teased this idea, admitting, “That’s what we thought too!”

Although she expressed some hesitation about stepping into the spotlight in such a new way, the Olympian ultimately left the decision up to the fans. ‘I’ll take over. I will do that for America if that’s what you want to see,” she added.

So, what is she looking for in a man when she is cast? She said, “I think someone who is very proud of me, who is kind, who understands my humor, who is ready to eat…”

“You mention a lot of things about me”, her dance partner, Alan Berstenadded, to which Ilona jokingly said, “Please stop talking.”

Ilona Maher waits for guys to enter her DMs

As Ilona Maher waits for potential suitors to enter her DMs, she can’t help but be excited about the response she’s getting.

“They’re all very positive moms saying, ‘I love what you did for my daughter,’ and I say, ‘Where are the NFL players? I thought there would be more. No billionaires here?” she joked as she spoke People magazine. Although she hasn’t tried dating apps yet, Ilona isn’t completely against exploring them in the future.

As for what she looks for in a partner, the Olympian appreciates someone who can match her sharp wit. “I was recently told by a guy, ‘You flirt by having fun,’” she admits, explaining her love for the back and forth of playful banter. “I think it’s also like I flirt, and then you come back with something, and it’s a back-and-forth conversation that I really enjoy.”

Most of all, she hopes to find a partner who is confident enough to keep up with her incredible achievements and embrace her ambitious nature. “I’ve never really had anyone come to my rugby matches,” she said. “Someone who is very proud to see me shine and wants me to continue to grow – someone who shows me off.”

Advocating for body positivity

Last month, the Olympian shared a video on social media with the caption: “Can I be vulnerable for a moment?”

In the clip, she wore a two-piece swimsuit, but admitted, “You know, I like to keep it real with you, so I just wanted to let you know that I’m not feeling too confident right now.” I think I’m making this video more to help myself.”

Openness about social media and mental health

Inviting internet scrutiny, as she did with her nationally broadcast tears, is often a risky gamble for mental health. While Ilona is grateful for the doors social media has opened, she remains cautious about the potential impact on her well-being.

“It’s amazing how much love I get online, but then of course I always get the negative parts,” she admitted People“I get people making assumptions about me, about my body, about who I am, and sometimes just spreading blatant lies about me, and it’s hard.”

Ilona Maher Says She’s Up For Anything After Her Time On ‘DWTS’

When speaking with People magazineIlona opened up about what the future holds and revealed that she is ready for whatever comes next.

“I hope this means I’m still in this space and can travel, and I hope my sisters come with me to do it. I hope there’s still sports in there and maybe some dancing, but not too much dancing,” she joked.

Maher is also hopeful that love is somewhere in her future. “I love platonic love. I love the love I have with my teammates, with my friends, my sisters. Romantic love would be great too.”

But for now, “I guess I’ll just ride this wave and see where it takes me.”