The 2025 edition of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue promises to be an unforgettable celebration of athleticism, beauty, and empowerment. Recently, the magazine announced that WNBA sensation Cameron Brink will join the ranks of other celebrated athletes including Olympians Jordan Chiles, Suni Lee, and Gabby Thomas. This inclusion underscores the growing trend of female athletes breaking boundaries—not just on the field but in realms typically dominated by high fashion and celebrity culture.
Cameron Brink, at just 22 years old, has made waves not only as a talented athlete but also as a burgeoning fashion icon. In an interview on the Podcast P with Paul George, Brink expressed her admiration for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, noting its empowering message for women. “I’ve always loved SI Swimsuit; I think it’s super empowering,” she said. This sentiment captures the essence of what the magazine aims to convey: that strength and femininity can coexist harmoniously.
The magazine’s announcement featured a stunning photograph of Brink taken in Boca Raton, Florida, where she flaunted her fit physique in a striking white bikini. The accompanying caption praised her for combining her undeniable talent on the basketball court with her commitment to redefining sports fashion. Brink’s physical prowess is matched by her fashionable presence; she has become known for her chic and standout outfits as she arrives for games, which has drawn significant attention in the realm of sports.
Brink’s announcement elicited enthusiastic reactions from her peers. Olympic tennis player Coco Gauff and gymnast Olivia Dunne took to social media to express their excitement, and Lindsey Vonn, a veteran of the Swimsuit Issue, welcomed Brink into the fold with open arms. This camaraderie among athletes reflects the supportive community that exists among women in sports, uniting them against the stereotypical barriers they often face.
Brink’s journey into the limelight has not been without its challenges. Following an impressive collegiate career at Stanford, she was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. Unfortunately, her rookie season was marred by a torn ACL that cut her year short. Nevertheless, this does not diminish her accomplishments; rather, it adds to her narrative as a resilient and determined athlete who faces adversity head-on.
Moreover, Brink is not just acing the basketball game; she is making waves in the world of fashion. Earlier this year, she featured in a lingerie campaign for Kim Kardashian’s brand, Skims, and made a splash at Paris Fashion Week. These achievements showcase her versatility and ability to navigate different realms with the same grace she exhibits on the court.
In a personal milestone, Brink also recently got engaged to her boyfriend, Ben Felter, marking a significant turning point in her life. This whirlwind year echoes the dynamic life many female athletes lead, balancing their professional aspirations with personal growth.
Cameron Brink’s participation in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue is more than just a modeling opportunity; it symbolizes the broader movement of female athletes asserting their identities beyond their sports. As she continues to break barriers and redefine roles, it will be exciting to see how Brink further influences both athletics and fashion in the years to come. Her story is inspiring and reflective of a growing trend: women in sports are not just players; they are multifaceted individuals who are reshaping societal norms.