The 2025 “Sports Illustrated” Swimsuit launch party illuminated the Hard Rock Hotel in New York City, showcasing a star-studded red carpet and featuring four prominent cover stars as the event’s highlights.

Salma Hayek, Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, Jordan Chiles, and Lauren Chan each brought a unique blend of confidence, energy, and purpose to the event, representing diverse ages, identities, and body types. “It feels great,” Hayek expressed about being on the cover. “Sometimes life offers unexpected, delightful moments that might be intimidating, but embracing these unexpected adventures keeps you energized and youthful.” She also shared her pride in “representing women of her age.”

Chan made history as the first lesbian woman on the “SI Swimsuit” cover. “I hope this inspires people,” she remarked, hoping to reach both those within and outside of the LGBTQ community.

Dunne, a former elite gymnast turned model, reflected on her rapid rise in the fashion world. “I feel the most confident in myself than I’ve ever been,” she said.

For Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, the moment was deeply personal. “I never thought in a million years I’d be in this position,” she said.

Also making a powerful return to the magazine’s pages: model and fashion expert Roshumba Williams, who appeared in three stunning swimwear looks in this year’s issue. She walked the red carpet in a silver, sparkly, backless LaQuan Smith gown and reflected on her journey since first appearing in SI Swimsuit back in 1990.

“I was in disbelief that someone that looked like me was considered a standard of beauty,” Williams said. “Now, at this age, is still considered a standard of beauty.”
She added, “The pictures stood because I’m so unique. I’m so different. There’s no one that looks like this and represents this”-natural hair and all.