For over six decades, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has redefined cultural perceptions of beauty, athleticism, and empowerment. The 2024 cover continues this legacy, featuring three groundbreaking cover models who represent the diverse spectrum of modern womanhood.
The 2024 Cover Models: A Celebration of Diversity
The 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover marks a historic milestone with not one, but three cover models: Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles, supermodel Adut Akech, and actress and activist Jameela Jamil. This unprecedented decision reflects the evolving values of the franchise, which now prioritizes inclusivity, body positivity, and intersectionality.
Simone Biles
The most decorated gymnast of all time breaks barriers as the first Olympian to grace the cover solo.
Adut Akech
The South Sudanese-Australian model advocates for racial diversity and representation in the industry.
Jameela Jamil
The actress and body positivity advocate challenges conventional beauty standards.
"This issue isn't just about swimsuits—it's about stories," says MJ Day, the issue's editor-in-chief. "These women represent the multifaceted nature of womanhood in 2024. They're athletes, activists, and artists who are reshaping culture on their own terms."
The Making of the 2024 Cover
Captured by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz, the cover shoot took place across three continents, with each model photographed in a location that resonated with her personal journey. Biles posed against the backdrop of her hometown Houston, Akech in the Australian outback, and Jamil in the vibrant streets of Mumbai.
Leibovitz described the experience as transformative: "Working with these women was humbling. Each has faced adversity and emerged stronger. The camera doesn't lie—you can see their power, their grace, and their authenticity."
"This isn't just a photoshoot. It's a movement. We're rewriting the rules of what it means to be beautiful, strong, and unapologetically yourself." — Simone Biles
The swimsuits themselves were created in collaboration with emerging designers who prioritize sustainability and inclusivity. From recycled ocean plastics to adaptive designs, the issue highlights the intersection of fashion, ethics, and innovation.
The Impact of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue
Since its inception in 1964, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has been both celebrated and critiqued. While initially criticized for objectifying women, the franchise has evolved significantly, using its platform to champion important causes and amplify underrepresented voices.
Years of cultural influence
Annual global readership
Countries represented
The 2024 issue continues this legacy of progress. For the first time, the magazine features a comprehensive size range, with models representing sizes 0-22. This decision comes after years of advocacy from body positivity activists and reflects a growing demand for realistic representation in media.
The Evolution of the Cover
From the iconic Cheryl Tiegs in 1978 to the groundbreaking Winnie Harlow in 2018, the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover has consistently mirrored societal shifts. The 2024 tri-cover model approach is a bold statement about the complexity and diversity of modern womanhood.
1964 vs. 2024
"When young girls see someone who looks like them on these pages, it changes everything," says Akech. "Representation isn't just about diversity—it's about giving people permission to love themselves as they are."
The Cultural Significance of the 2024 Cover
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover serves as a cultural touchstone. It challenges traditional beauty standards, celebrates athletic achievement, and amplifies marginalized voices.
Body Positivity Movement
The inclusion of Jameela Jamil, who has been vocal about her struggles with body image, sends a powerful message about embracing imperfections. Her presence on the cover is a rejection of the "perfect body" myth.
Athletic Excellence
Simone Biles' inclusion breaks new ground for female athletes. Her cover appearance underscores the importance of recognizing women in sports beyond their athletic achievements.
Racial and Ethnic Diversity
Adut Akech's presence continues Sports Illustrated's commitment to racial inclusivity. As a South Sudanese-Australian model, she represents a global perspective that reflects the magazine's growing international audience.
The 2024 cover models represent a new era of representation and empowerment.
"This issue isn't just for the beach—it's for the history books," says Day. "We wanted to create something that would resonate not just in 2024, but for generations to come."
Inside the 2024 Issue: What to Expect
Beyond the iconic cover, the 2024 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue features groundbreaking content that extends the magazine's mission of empowerment and inclusivity.
Exclusive Photo Essays
Intimate portraits of the cover models and emerging talents, shot by industry-leading photographers.
Personal Stories
Candid interviews where models open up about their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.
Innovative Fashion
Cutting-edge swimwear designs that blend style, sustainability, and functionality.
Global Perspectives
Features highlighting women who are making an impact in their communities worldwide.
The issue also includes a special section dedicated to adaptive fashion, featuring models with disabilities who are redefining beauty standards. "We wanted to ensure that every reader sees themselves reflected in these pages," says Day.
Notable Quotes from the 2024 Issue
"Strength isn't just about what you can do physically—it's about who you are and what you stand for." — Simone Biles
"My skin color, my height, my background—these aren't flaws. They're my superpowers." — Adut Akech
"We're told to hide our imperfections, but what if our imperfections are what make us perfect?" — Jameela Jamil
"This issue isn't about perfection—it's about authenticity. And authenticity is the new luxury." — MJ Day
The Future of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue
As the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue enters its seventh decade, the franchise shows no signs of slowing down. With a renewed focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and storytelling, the 2024 issue sets the tone for future iterations.
Looking ahead, the magazine plans to expand its digital presence, launch educational initiatives focused on body positivity, and continue partnering with brands that align with its values. "We're not just a magazine—we're a movement," says Day.
"The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has the power to shape culture. We take that responsibility seriously. Our goal is to inspire the next generation to embrace their uniqueness and live boldly." — MJ Day
The 2024 cover is more than just a photograph—it's a statement. It represents the culmination of decades of progress in the fight for representation, equality, and self-love. As readers flip through the pages, they'll see themselves, their stories, and their potential reflected in its images.
Conclusion: The Legacy Continues
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2024 cover is a testament to the power of evolution. What began as a simple supplement has become a cultural institution that challenges norms, celebrates diversity, and empowers millions.
From the beaches of Hawaii to the streets of Mumbai, the 2024 issue reminds us that beauty is not monolithic—it is diverse, dynamic, and deeply personal. As Simone Biles, Adut Akech, and Jameela Jamil grace the cover, they do so not just as models, but as icons who are reshaping the world in their image.
As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue will continue to push boundaries, spark conversations, and inspire generations to come. The 2024 cover is not just a moment—it's a movement.
About the Author
Emma Johnson
Senior Fashion Editor at Sports Illustrated
Emma has covered the Swimsuit Issue for over a decade, documenting its evolution from traditional to trailblazing. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Elle, and The New York Times.