The lineup for the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue has been unveiled, and Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, a recently retired NCAA gymnast, is among the four cover stars making her debut in this prestigious publication. Dunne joins a stellar group that includes Olympic medalist Jordan Chiles, entrepreneur Lauren Chan, and the multi-talented Salma Hayek, who is an Oscar-nominated actress and Emmy-winning director and producer.
In an exclusive interview with Sports Illustrated, Dunne addressed the often dismissive perceptions regarding her success, stating, “People like to discredit what I do because of the way I look. But if you take a deeper dive there’s so much more.” This statement highlights Dunne’s desire for recognition beyond her appearance and a call for appreciation of her hard work and dedication.
Dunne’s ascent to fame is attributed to the NCAA’s groundbreaking decision to allow college athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This change played a pivotal role in her success, empowering Dunne to capitalize on the social media presence she cultivated since childhood. “I think that my audience could feel that authenticity because it was something I was doing before the rule change,” she explained. “This was years in the making. It didn’t come to me easily, and I think that’s a big misconception.” This reflects the significant shift in opportunities for college athletes, enabling them to build brands and pursue entrepreneurial endeavors alongside their athletic careers.
The 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue not only highlights remarkable athletes but also showcases the triumphs and stories behind their journeys, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be successful in today’s landscape. Dunne’s debut serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that dedication and authenticity can forge new paths in a rapidly changing world.
Dunne’s story offers a hopeful glimpse into the potential future of female athletes leveraging their platforms for greater recognition and success, making this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue a noteworthy event in the sports and media realms.