Salma Hayek is causing a major buzz in the USA right now, and the reason is crystal clear: the iconic actress, model, and producer has just made her stunning debut as a cover star for the prestigious Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue for 2025! At 58 years young, Hayek graces the cover for the very first time, and the images are nothing short of breathtaking, immediately setting social media and news outlets ablaze.
Why is this trending?
- Breaking Barriers and Age Stereotypes: Hayek’s appearance on the cover is a powerful statement about beauty and age. In an industry often focused on youth, her inclusion at 58 is being celebrated as a refreshing and inspiring move. It underscores the idea that confidence and allure are timeless. As MJ Day, the editor in chief of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, eloquently stated, the issue is “about creating a platform to capture moments that define our times, celebrating people who are shaping culture, and showcasing beauty on a world stage.” Hayek, in this context, is seen as a force who embodies this ethos.
- Stunning Visuals and Body Positivity: The cover photos, shot by renowned photographer Ruven Afanador in Mexico, are undeniably captivating. In one cover, Hayek kneels in a pool, radiant in a glittering dark green swimsuit, complemented by a gold body chain and turquoise necklace. Another cover captures her leaning against a rocky cliff on a beach, wearing a chic brown and mustard yellow crochet-style top with matching glittering yellow bottoms. These images showcase her incredible figure and exude a sense of confidence and joy. Hayek herself has spoken about feeling “liberated” sharing such photos, and this resonates with many who appreciate her authentic approach to her image.
- Celebrating a Trailblazer: Salma Hayek is not just a beautiful face; she is a multifaceted woman with a significant impact as an actor, director, producer, and a vocal champion for women and the Latinx community. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit recognized this, with Day calling her “a force of nature” and highlighting her role as a “beacon for Latinx communities, a tireless advocate and a person whose passion for art, life and humanity has few rivals.” This recognition of her broader achievements alongside her stunning appearance amplifies the significance of her cover.
- Joining Esteemed Company: Hayek shares the cover spotlight with other remarkable women for the 2025 issue, including athletes Livvy Dunne and Jordan Chiles, and model Lauren Chan. This collective of diverse and accomplished women further contributes to the buzz surrounding the issue and Hayek’s inclusion.
- Her Own History with Bikinis: Hayek is no stranger to sharing confident bikini photos on her social media, often emphasizing that they are not throwbacks. This openness about embracing her body at any age has already cultivated a strong sense of admiration among her followers, making her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit debut a highly anticipated and celebrated moment.
In her own words while on set, Hayek reflected on her younger self never imagining she would be in the magazine, especially at 58, highlighting how much the world has changed in a positive way. She hopes her photos and interview serve as a reminder to always find joy in any situation.
Salma Hayek’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover debut is more than just a beautiful photoshoot; it’s a cultural moment that celebrates confidence, breaks age barriers, and honors a remarkable woman. It’s no wonder she’s the talk of the USA right now.