The Evolution of Allure: Sports Illustrated Crowns Salma Hayek Pinault in Landmark 2025 Issue
In a masterstroke of cultural zeitgeist, Sports Illustrated has unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 Swimsuit issue with an illustrious quartet of cover stars that perfectly encapsulates beauty’s evolving narrative. The indomitable Salma Hayek Pinault leads this year’s assemblage, joined by Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, collegiate gymnastics phenomenon Olivia Dunne, and body positivity advocate Lauren Chan.
Shot through the discerning lens of celebrated photographer Ruven Afanador, Hayek Pinault’s cover debut marks yet another triumphant milestone in her already illustrious career. The Mexican-born actress, producer, and perennial fashion muse appears transcendent in her cover imagery—kneeling in crystalline waters wearing an emerald sequined swimsuit, adorned with a luxurious gold body chain and statement turquoise necklace that evokes her cultural heritage with sublime sophistication.
A second captivating cover presents Hayek Pinault in a textural bohemian reverie, her form draped against a dramatic coastal cliff face. Here, she dons a remarkable crochet ensemble in earth tones—a mustard and chocolate artisanal top paired with luminescent gold bottoms—the craftsmanship recalling luxury resort wear while her pose speaks to unbridled confidence.
This year’s issue boasts an impressive roster of thirty-eight women who collectively redefine what it means to be featured in the publication’s storied pages. The diverse assembly includes Olympic medallists Ilona Maher, Suni Lee, and Gabby Thomas, alongside WNBA sensation Cameron Brink and digital phenomenon Alix Earle. The globetrotting production transported these luminaries to a series of breathtaking locales—from the pristine shores of Bermuda and Jamaica to the urban sophistication of Zurich, Switzerland, the cultural landscape of Fort Worth, Texas, and the exclusive sanctuary of Cuixmala, Mexico.
“Sports Illustrated Swimsuit has always been about more than swimsuits and stunning imagery,” pronounces MJ Day, the publication’s editor-in-chief with characteristic vision. “It’s about creating a platform to capture moments that define our times, celebrating people who are shaping culture, and showcasing beauty on a world stage.”
Day further articulates the thoughtful curation behind each selection: “Every single woman included this year brings with her a unique and powerful reason for being featured in the issue. Whether it’s about what she represents, the impact she’s making, or the change she’s driving in her own life and the world around her, these women show up with passion and purpose.”
Of Hayek Pinault specifically, Day bestows the ultimate accolade, dubbing her “a force of nature as an actor, director, producer, and champion for women”—a multidimensional tribute to the star’s cultural resonance that extends far beyond her undeniable physical allure.
Perhaps most refreshingly, Hayek Pinault’s participation aligns perfectly with her established perspective on sensuality and self-expression. In a 2021 conversation with Entertainment Tonight, she described sharing glimpses of herself in swimwear as “liberating,” while candidly acknowledging the discipline required: “I had to lose a lot of weight and exercise to get into the bikini towards the end of last year.”
As the May 17 street date approaches, this landmark issue stands poised to not merely continue but eloquently evolve Sports Illustrated’s tradition of celebrating diverse, empowered womanhood through the swimsuit medium—with Hayek Pinault’s radiant presence confirming that genuine beauty remains limitless in its expressions, ageless in its appeal, and boundless in its cultural impact.
