Salma Hayek Shines on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover 2025: Everything You Need to Know
The announcement of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover 2025 has captured global attention. This year’s edition breaks boundaries, celebrates diversity, and features stunning photography. Notably, Salma Hayek Pinault graces the cover at 58 years old, proving that confidence and beauty are timeless.
Salma Hayek Pinault: Redefining the Iconic Cover
Salma Hayek Pinault’s feature on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover 2025 marks a cultural milestone. An award-winning actress, producer, and human rights advocate, Salma brings authenticity and joy to this historic issue. She was photographed in her home country of Mexico, exuding glamor and confidence. Hayek remarked, "If somebody had told me I was gonna be in it at 58, I would have sent them to the madhouse, but the world has changed, and that’s exciting." Her inspiring journey spotlights changing attitudes toward age and representation in media.
For a detailed look at Salma's journey to the cover, read the full cover story on SI Swimsuit.
Celebrating Diversity and Power
The 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue doesn’t stop with one groundbreaking choice. Alongside Salma Hayek, three other remarkable women—Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, athlete Olivia Dunne, and model Lauren Chan—join as fellow cover stars. This year’s issue features 38 women from varied backgrounds, from Olympians to entrepreneurs, photographed in stunning locales worldwide.
Editor MJ Day shared, "Every single woman included this year brings with her a unique and powerful reason for being featured." The shoots spanned locations like Bermuda, Jamaica, Switzerland, and, for Hayek, Mexico’s Cuixmala resort. These powerful images are more than just fashion—they’re statements about the evolving face of beauty and talent.
Discover more about these inspiring cover models in this exclusive WWD article.
A Family Perspective: Generational Impact
Salma’s cover appearance also sparked conversations at home. Her 17-year-old daughter, Valentina, was initially unaware of the significance of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover. Growing up in a different generation, Valentina had not realized the magnitude of her mother’s accomplishment. Salma shared on the Today show, "My daughter had no idea what this cover was… It’s another generation."
Hayek’s surprise at being chosen for the cover at 58 reflects changing norms in fashion and media. She reminds readers, "I just never thought it was a possibility. And for it to happen when I’m 58, it’s really shocking."
Read more about Salma and Valentina’s reactions in this detailed Yahoo Entertainment story.
Why the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover 2025 Matters
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover 2025 is more than a visual celebration; it stands for empowerment, body positivity, and the broadening of beauty standards. By featuring women of different ages, backgrounds, and talents, Sports Illustrated continues to lead meaningful change in the fashion world.
This edition inspires readers to embrace confidence, diversity, and personal joy—regardless of age. As Salma Hayek Pinault said, “It’s important to always put all your effort in finding the joy in any given situation.”
Experience the Impact
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit tradition, this year’s cover is a must-see. Make sure to view the full photo gallery and exclusive interviews. Let this year’s stars remind us all: confidence is ageless, and diversity is beautiful.