Suni Lee debuts for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit (Image via Getty)

"Is this real life?"- Suni Lee announces major update as she joins Olivia Dunne as SI Swimsuit model

Modified Nov 03, 2024 18:56 GMT

Following her adventures at the Paris Olympics, American gymnast Suni Lee is set to make her debut as a new addition to Sports Illustrated for its upcoming issue. The gymnast has made several fashion features this year after winning multiple medals at the Olympic Games.

Lee made her second Olympic appearance in August and matched her medal count from Tokyo with three medals: a gold in the team all-around apparatus and two bronze medals in the individual all-around and uneven bars events. Notably, her bronze victory in the uneven bars marked the first time a gymnast from the United States has secured two Olympic medals in the event.

After completing her professional 2024 season, Lee embarked on a fashion adventure where she graced the cover of Glamour Magazine after being recognized as one of the Women of the Year. In September, Lee also made her debut at the New York Fashion Week, showcasing an outfit designed by Prada. She then attended the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

In a recent update on Lee's fashion ventures, Sports Illustrated announced its collaboration with the gymnast for its 2025 issue. As per its website, Lee is currently in Boca Raton, Florida, preparing for her first-ever shoot with the magazine, which will be photographed by Ben Horton. Inside Gym shared the news on its Instagram handle, writing:

"From being a part of New York Fashion Week to headlining lululemon’s latest campaign to now being announced as one of Sport Illustrated Swimsuit’s newest models, Suni Lee is taking the fashion world by storm!"

Lee also reposted behind-the-scenes moments from the shoot on her Instagram story, writing:

"Is this real life???"

"I want to inspire the younger generation" - Suni Lee reflects on her motivations for entering the fashion world

Suni Lee at the Street Style - September 2024 - New York Fashion Week (Image via Getty)

During a July 2024 conversation with the South China Morning Post, Suni Lee expressed that she has enjoyed experimenting with her style and that she aims to inspire the younger generation through her fashion endeavors.

"I have really enjoyed getting to experiment with my own style as I’ve gotten older. My philosophy when it comes to fashion is to enjoy it and use it as a form of self-expression," she said (via South China Morning Post)."

She added:

"I stay as true to myself and my roots as possible. I want to inspire the younger generation to embrace their inner and outer beauty and celebrate their uniqueness and individuality. Everyone should feel confident in their own skin and do what makes them happy to feel good."

On top of her recent ventures, Lee attended the 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards, turning heads in a black dress.