Serena Williams Turns Heads in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Joining Tennis Stars Eugenie Bouchard and Caroline Wozniacki

Serena Williams is no stranger to breaking boundaries. Whether she is lifting a Grand Slam trophy or challenging fashion norms, the 35-year-old tennis legend always seems to set the standard. Fresh off her record-breaking triumph in Melbourne, Serena has stepped into a very different spotlight—appearing in the 2017 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.

The annual magazine, which has long been considered a cultural phenomenon, hit newsstands this week with Serena taking a starring role alongside fellow tennis icons Eugenie Bouchard and Caroline Wozniacki. For Serena, this is not just another photoshoot—it is a bold statement about confidence, body positivity, and the power of reinvention.

Serena’s Daring Look

In her feature, Serena stunned fans by posing in a thong bikini—something she admitted she had never worn before. “I’ve actually never worn a thong bikini, so for that to be my first shot was a huge shot of espresso for me,” she explained with a laugh. “I had to wake up immediately. The thong was perfect. It really made me feel comfortable. I’m officially a thong girl now.”

The honesty behind her words resonated with many, as Serena has long been praised for embracing her athletic physique in an industry that often celebrates only one narrow definition of beauty. Her confidence not only challenges stereotypes but also inspires women worldwide to be unapologetic about their bodies.

Tennis Stars Share the Spotlight

While Serena’s boldness stole headlines, she wasn’t the only tennis figure gracing the beaches for Sports Illustrated. Canadian star Eugenie Bouchard made her swimsuit debut, showing a different side of herself away from the court. Known for her bubbly personality and massive social media following, Bouchard looked completely at ease in front of the camera. Her debut was described by fans as “cute, fresh, and glamorous,” a clear signal that she could easily expand her brand beyond tennis.

Meanwhile, Serena’s close friend Caroline Wozniacki continued her swimsuit modeling streak, appearing in her third consecutive edition. Fans will remember her much-discussed 2016 body paint shoot, which became one of the most talked-about images in recent swimsuit history. In 2017, Wozniacki once again balanced elegance and athleticism, reminding fans why she remains one of tennis’s most marketable stars.

A Legacy of Tennis in Swimsuit History

Serena’s latest appearance adds to a long list of tennis champions who have posed for Sports Illustrated. She herself previously appeared in the 2003 and 2005 editions, while her sister Venus Williams turned heads in the 2004 issue. Looking back even further, Hall of Famer Steffi Graf was among the first tennis greats to step into swimsuit modeling, setting a precedent more than two decades ago.

The crossover between tennis and fashion has only grown since then. Ana Ivanovic’s 2010 shoot, Daniela Hantuchová’s 2009 feature, and Maria Sharapova’s memorable polka-dot look in 2012 all highlighted how the sport’s biggest stars could seamlessly transition into cultural icons. Sharapova even extended her modeling career with a bold spread for Esquire Latin America in 2011.

More Than Just Modeling

For Serena, however, her appearance is about more than just glamour. It is another reminder of how she has consistently used her platform to break down barriers. Over the years, she has challenged outdated beauty standards, stood at the intersection of sports and fashion, and redefined what it means to be a female athlete in the modern era.

Her presence in the SI Swimsuit Issue also aligns with her broader career trajectory. Serena has launched her own fashion line, collaborated with major brands, and spoken openly about empowerment and diversity. Each public appearance seems carefully woven into her larger narrative: that women can be powerful, stylish, and successful on their own terms.

Cultural Impact

The significance of Serena’s 2017 shoot goes far beyond glossy photos. For many fans, seeing one of the most dominant athletes of all time embracing her body with such confidence is deeply empowering. It also reflects the evolution of the SI Swimsuit Issue itself, which has increasingly spotlighted athletes, activists, and women who represent strength as well as beauty.

Serena Williams has never been afraid to stand out, whether by dominating her opponents on the court, speaking up on issues of equality, or stepping boldly into the world of fashion. Her latest turn in Sports Illustrated is just another chapter in a career filled with groundbreaking achievements.

And if her words are any indication, Serena isn’t just comfortable with her new look—she is ready to own it. “I’m officially a thong girl now,” she declared. For fans who have watched her shatter barriers time and time again, that confidence feels exactly like Serena: fearless, unapologetic, and iconic.