Livvy Dunne, an LSU graduate and rising star in the world of gymnastics, is the embodiment of an empowered new era for female athletes. Recently, she was unveiled as one of the cover stars for the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, alongside the likes of Salma Hayek and Olympian Jordan Chiles. What makes this achievement particularly groundbreaking is not merely the glamour of modeling swimsuits but the narrative of empowerment and self-discovery that accompanies it. At just 22 years old, Dunne is forging a new path, replete with both athletic excellence and personal brand development.
Her cover, showcasing a bold zebra-printed bikini and a backdrop of Bermuda’s dreamy waters, transcends traditional beauty standards often depicted in sports modeling. The session, expertly shot by renowned photographer Ben Watts, captures the hard work and dedication behind Dunne’s success. It’s not just about looking fabulous; it’s a confident statement that resonates with a generation of young women seeking inspiration to go beyond societal expectations.
From Gymnastics to a Global Stage
Livvy Dunne is not new to the spotlight, but this Sports Illustrated feature marks a significant evolution in her public persona. An exemplar of hard work, Dunne has established herself as the highest-paid female athlete in the NCAA, crafting a lucrative brand while remaining committed to her sport. Her emphasis on authenticity and adherence to her values resonates profoundly in today’s climate, establishing a blueprint for other athletes aspiring to broaden their horizons.
“I’m just stepping into a new version of myself,” Dunne stated, illustrating her journey of transformation. This comment encapsulates her journey, signaling her transition from being solely an athlete to becoming a multifaceted personality whose influence extends beyond gymnastics. Livvy represents many young women—those who strive for excellence not just in sports but in every venture they undertake.
Breaking Barriers Through Representation
The sports and modeling industries often exhibit rigid boundaries regarding what constitutes beauty and success. However, Dunne’s rise challenges these paradigms. She boldly claims her narrative: “I want this cover image to capture the audience and then they flip the page open, and it’s just a badass story inside.” This is a sentiment many can relate to—how often do we allow our superficial perceptions to define our understanding of someone’s capabilities or worth?
Sports Illustrated’s Editor-in-Chief MJ Day captures this essence perfectly, emphasizing that the magazine aims to serve as a platform for those who shape culture and society. By featuring athletes like Dunne, the publication elevates discussions around body positivity, ambition, and the multifaceted nature of modern femininity. Dunne’s presence in such a prestigious issue signals a shift towards diversity—diversity in what it means to be an athlete and the myriad of forms that success can take.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes
Dunne’s journey is especially poignant for younger athletes who sometimes feel discouraged by the constraints of their sports or societal expectations. “When people look at my Sports Illustrated photos, I want them to take away that you can have the best of both worlds,” Dunne explained. This message is crucial, as it encourages young women to pursue their dreams while defying the unrealistic molds often imposed upon them.
The 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue features a plethora of athletes, each telling their own unique stories while embodying strength and resilience. Dunne’s inclusion among iconic figures mirrors her philosophy—celebrating individuality while representing a community of empowered women who are not afraid to straddle the worlds of sport and pop culture.
A Decisive Moment for Sports Media
Livvy Dunne’s emergence as a Sports Illustrated cover star is not merely a personal triumph; it represents a larger cultural shift in how female athletes are portrayed and perceived. This pivotal moment in sports media fosters a dialogue about the complex realities that female athletes navigate. By embracing their identities fully and leveraging their influence, these women, including Dunne, are challenging the status quo.
Dunne’s vision for her future extends beyond the confines of a modeling career; she’s navigating her success grounded in integrity and authenticity. With her rising profile, she embodies the future of athletes who can thrive in multiple arenas. It’s a powerful affirmation that success in sports and personal branding are not mutually exclusive, but rather, they can coexist in a beautifully ambitious trajectory.