The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue is getting a major dose of star power once again, as TikTok phenomenon Alix Earle prepares to grace its pages for the third consecutive year. This time, the shoot took her to the breathtaking landscapes of Botswana, marking another milestone in her rapid rise from social media creator to SI staple.
From Digital Cover to African Adventure
Earle's journey with the iconic magazine began with a historic moment in 2024, when she became the first-ever digital cover model for SI Swimsuit. She followed that breakthrough with a stunning 2025 feature shot in Jamaica, experiences she describes as profoundly transformative. "That was beyond what I expected," Earle revealed, reflecting on her previous shoots. "Halfway through I was in the tent changing, and I just started tearing up. I was just like, 'What is my life? What am I doing?' This is just insane."
The emotional experience clearly left a mark, with Earle emphasizing how the shoots boosted her confidence. "I really just felt confident out there, and it was just a lot of fun. I can't believe I'm doing this," she shared, capturing the surreal nature of her career trajectory. Her authenticity resonates with fans, much like when Simone Biles' birthday swimsuit snap ignited a social media firestorm with its genuine celebration of athleticism and body positivity.
Botswana Beckons for 2026 Feature
SI Swimsuit confirmed this week that Earle will return for the 2026 edition, having already completed her latest shoot in Botswana. She joined fellow models Achieng Agutu, Camille Kostek, Penny Lane, and Meredith Mickelson for the African adventure. Fans have already gotten a tantalizing preview of the upcoming spread, featuring Earle in a jaw-dropping pearl-covered bikini that has set social media ablaze.
The reaction to the sneak peek was instantaneous and overwhelmingly positive. "WOWWWWWW my girl," one enthusiastic fan commented, while another simply declared, "Always stunning." A third admirer went straight to the point, labeling her an "Icon." This kind of viral moment is becoming familiar territory for SI, similar to how the Italian model's WBC photoshoot set the internet ablaze with its unique blend of sport and style.
NFL Romance Rumors Swirl
Beyond the magazine covers, Earle finds herself in the sports spotlight for another reason. She was recently spotted leaving the prestigious Vanity Fair Oscars party alongside singer Tate McRae, model Anastasia Karanikolaou, and Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. The sighting has fueled speculation about a potential connection between the social media star and the NFL superstar, though neither party has commented on the nature of their relationship.
This isn't the first time Earle's name has been linked to football royalty. Just two months ago, rumors circulated about a possible fling with legendary quarterback Tom Brady, though those whispers were never addressed publicly. Earle's dating history does include the NFL—she was in a two-year relationship with wide receiver Braxton Berrios before announcing their breakup this past December. The intersection of sports and celebrity continues to fascinate fans, much like the discussions that emerge when sports fans slam Oscars glitterati over post-show controversies.
A New Era of SI Swimsuit
Earle's continued partnership with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit represents the magazine's evolving approach, embracing digital-native stars alongside traditional models. Her massive TikTok following brings a new, engaged audience to the historic franchise, blending social media influence with high-fashion photography. The Botswana shoot promises to be another visually spectacular entry in her growing portfolio, showcasing both the model and the majestic location.
As anticipation builds for the full 2026 SI Swimsuit reveal, Earle's story underscores a modern media truth: influence can come from anywhere, and sometimes the most emotional journeys begin with a single viral video. Her tearful moment in the changing tent speaks to the powerful impact these opportunities can have, proving that even in the glamorous world of modeling, genuine human emotion still takes center stage. In an industry often focused on youth, Earle's success is a testament to the power of personality, joining the ranks of icons like Cindy Crawford, who continues to stun in denim, proving timeless style knows no age.
