It wasn’t just another evening in New York City—it was a night where sports legends, Olympians, and celebrities came together to celebrate one of the most iconic moments in fashion and pop culture: the launch of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue.
And yes, even 50 Cent was there to bring the party vibes.
The red carpet at the Hard Rock Hotel in NYC was absolutely buzzing as stars made their grand entrance, turning the event into a dazzling mix of fashion, athleticism, and pure star power.
Olivia Dunne Celebrates Her SI Cover Moment
All eyes were on Olivia Dunne, who recently wrapped up her gymnastics career and is now adding “SI Swimsuit cover model” to her resume.
She’s one of four women gracing this year’s covers, and she was glowing as she walked the red carpet.
The former LSU gymnast couldn’t hide her excitement. “I can’t believe it.
Oh my god. That photo is so good,” she said of seeing her cover for the first time.
“That is crazy, I am a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model.”
Her shoot took place in Bermuda, and Dunne described it as unforgettable.
“It was the most beautiful place I have ever been,” she said.
“Even though the shoot was short—just 24 hours—it felt like being with family. It was the most fun I’ve ever had on a shoot.”
Jordan Chiles Shares Her Emotional Journey
Alongside Dunne was Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, who also had her own powerful SI Swimsuit moment.
The gold medalist, who stunned fans with her performance at the Paris Olympics, opened up about the emotional impact of seeing herself in the magazine.
“I literally started bawling my eyes out,” Chiles shared. Her mom was equally moved.
“She cried a few times from some of the photos,” Chiles explained.
“She’s been there every single moment of my life—from the times I’d cry looking in the mirror and call myself ugly, to now seeing me embrace who I am.”
For Chiles, this was more than a photoshoot—it was a moment of deep self-acceptance and a celebration of how far she’s come.
A Red Carpet Full of Stars and Special Moments
The event drew a seriously star-studded crowd.
Actress Salma Hayek, also a cover star this year, showed off her effortless elegance.
Olympian Suni Lee joined Chiles at the party, while Jena Sims arrived fresh off supporting her husband, Brooks Koepka, who’s been battling through the PGA Championship.
Rob Gronkowski—yes, the NFL legend himself—hit the carpet with longtime girlfriend Camille Kostek.
Inside, the couple kept the energy high while partying with none other than 50 Cent.
Meanwhile, Alix Earle, influencer and girlfriend of NFL’s Braxton Berrios, made her mark on the red carpet, as did Eagles running back AJ Dillon.
It was truly a who’s who of sports and pop culture.
50 Cent Brings the Party to Life
Of course, no party would be complete without some music, and 50 Cent did not disappoint.
The rapper not only performed live at the event, but also brought his signature charm—at one point pouring a drink for Olivia Dunne as they celebrated her big night.
And just when you thought things couldn’t get more lively, Jordan Chiles and Salma Hayek were spotted dancing together while Gronkowski was seen sipping from a bottle as friends captured the fun on their phones.
More Than a Party—A Celebration of Empowerment
Beyond the glitz, the night carried a deeper message—especially for the women featured on this year’s covers.
For both Dunne and Chiles, it was about more than the glamour.
It was about reclaiming their power, embracing their beauty, and showing the world the strength behind their stories.
Whether it was a gymnast redefining her identity post-retirement or a young woman learning to love the reflection in the mirror, the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit event was a celebration of growth, self-worth, and unapologetic confidence.