How to Watch the 2024 Paris Olympics: Everything You Need to Know

Team USA rugby player Ilona Maher is kicking negativity to the curb.

The 27-year-old—who will be returning to the 2024 Paris Olympics after winning hearts at the 2020 Summer Games—recently clapped back at criticism over how she's considered "overweight" on the mass body index (BMI) scale.

"I think you were trying to roast me, but this is actually fact: I do have a BMI of 30—well, 29.3 to be more exact," Ilona responded to one critic in a July 20 TikTok video. "I've been considered overweight my whole life."

However, she noted that BMI "just tells you what your height and weight and what that equals," instead of detailing about overall health or athleticism. 

"I chatted up with my dietitian because I go off of facts," Ilona shared. "We talked about BMI and how it really isn't helpful for athletes. BMI doesn't tell you much."

photosRules for the 2024 Paris Olympics That May Surprise You

Ilona—who is 5-foot-10 and weighs around 200 pounds—went on to explain that while she would be considered "overweight" on the BMI scale, her measurement does not take into account how she has "about 170 pounds" of lean muscle on her body.

"That's pretty crazy, right?" she continued. "I am considered overweight. But alas, I'm going to the Olympics and you're not."

Ilona added in the caption of her post, "As long as haters keep saying dumb stuff, I’m gonna keep clapping back."

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for TIME

The Vermont native has been an outspoken voice for body positivity since making her Olympics debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games.

Last year, she penned an open letter to girls and women "with the big shoulders," writing on Instagram, "You are not undesirable. You are not built like a linebacker. You are not manly. You are not unattractive."

"You are beautiful," Ilona continued, posting a photo of herself in a skin-tight, backless dress. "You are imposing. You are powerful. You are magnificent."

She added, "Put your shoulders back, wear your head high, and walk into any room like you own the place."

Of course, Ilona isn't the only athlete on Team USA. Keep reading to meet more breakout sport stars who'll be competing at the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.

Watch the 2024 Paris Olympics daily on NBC and Peacock until the summer games end with the Closing Ceremony on Sunday, Aug. 11, at 7 p.m. ET/PT.