9 Memorable Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Covers

The iconic magazine's swimsuit edition remains a cultural phenomenon.

Mar. 7, 2026 at 9:03pm

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The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition may not generate the same level of hype as it once did, but it remains one of the most iconic and culturally significant American institutions. From the days when access to photos of beautiful women in bathing suits was more limited, the annual swimsuit issue was highly anticipated by many readers, who would even subscribe to the magazine solely for that one edition. This article highlights 9 of the most memorable covers from the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition over the years.

Why it matters

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition has long been a cultural touchstone, representing a time when physical media and tangible experiences held more weight. While the internet has democratized access to such content, the swimsuit issue still maintains a sense of nostalgia and significance for many readers who grew up anticipating its annual release.

The details

The author describes how they would carefully preserve and protect their collection of Sports Illustrated magazines, with the swimsuit editions receiving special care and attention. They also share their opinion that model Rachel Hunter is the "Greatest of All-Time" when it comes to the swimsuit issue, and challenge anyone who disagrees to a rather unusual punishment.

  • The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition has been an annual publication for decades.

The players

Rachel Hunter

A model who the author considers the "Greatest of All-Time" when it comes to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition.

Rod Stewart

A musician who the author questions how he had the "stones" to approach and date Rachel Hunter, given his appearance.

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What they’re saying

“Before I let you go, Rachel Hunter is the GOAT (Greatest of All-time) and it's not close so don't argue with me. If you think anything different I want you to do me a favor. Take some rock hard sausages out of the freezer, put them into a tube sock, spin the sock until the sausages are packed in there tight and swing it straight up at your face and jack yourself in the lips.”

— The author

The takeaway

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition represents a bygone era when physical media and tangible experiences held more weight in popular culture. While its cultural significance has diminished in the digital age, the swimsuit issue continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia for many readers who grew up eagerly anticipating its annual release.