Olympic gymnastics star Suni Lee didn't appear in the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, but she's still making waves during its launch week. The 22-year-old turned heads at an Off-White fashion event this Friday, sharing a photo on her Instagram Story that quickly went viral.
In the image, Lee wears a sleek white dress that has fans buzzing across social media. Comments like "stunning" and "need to see many more pics of Suni Lee in this fit" flooded platforms within hours. The attention comes as other SI Swimsuit models celebrate the magazine's release, but Lee's solo fashion moment stole the spotlight.
From Gymnastics to Fashion Icon
Lee became a household name after her gold medal win in the individual all-around at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Her success led to her joining the SI Swimsuit family in 2025, where she opened up about body image struggles. "Gymnastics has definitely impacted my body image," Lee told SI Swimsuit. "We have to wear skin-tight leotards. There are so many critics online, but I’m always going to be my biggest critic."
Her resilience extends beyond fashion. In 2023, Lee announced a medical retirement from gymnastics due to an incurable kidney disease. "I have been dealing with a non-gymnastics health related issue involving my kidneys," she said at the time. "My focus at this time is my health and recovery." Yet she defied the odds, returning for the 2024 Paris Olympics and winning three more medals, including a bronze on the balance beam. Her comeback earned her the ESPY Award for Best Comeback Athlete.
What's Next for Suni Lee?
With the 2028 Olympics set for Los Angeles, fans are eager to see what Lee does next. Her recent fashion moment echoes the buzz around other athletes like Parker Valby's stunning blue swimsuit photo and Ana Ivanovic's summer dress that had fans going wild. Lee's ability to captivate both in the gym and on the red carpet cements her status as a true star.
Her journey from health scare to Olympic podium to fashion icon is nothing short of inspiring. As she continues to balance her athletic career with her growing presence in the fashion world, one thing is clear: Suni Lee is just getting started.
