Meet Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s 2022 Rookies

The SI Swimsuit rookie class is back! Models like Cindy Kimberly, Kamie Crawford, Olivia Ponton, Christen Harper, Duckie Thot, Georgina Burke, Maye Musk, and Kate Austin all grace the pages this year, each of them in their unique way as they continue the magazine’s legacy of proving that all kinds of bodies and shapes are beautiful. 

But across the board, all of these models have more than a few things in common – they’ve all struggled with self-esteem but have learned to value and embrace themselves. With the modeling industry embracing diversity, none has ever felt as confident as they do when they’re in a swimsuit posing for Sports Illustrated. Enjoy.

Georgina Burke Was Photographed By Ben Watts in Barbados. Swimsuit by Two Piece Mafia, Top by Polo Ralph Lauren & Earrings by Baublebar.

This Australian model has been opened up about her mental health struggles. As a result, she has also been breaking down the wall of the stigma that surrounds seeking therapy. However, Burke had posed for Polo Ralph Lauren swim and was once the face of Torrid’s swimsuit collection. She has since launched her line of body-positive swimwear called Burke NYC. 

James Macari Photographed Olivia Ponton In Montenegro. Swimsuit by Navy Ray, Earrings by SOKO & Sunglasses by Poppy Lissiman.

Since attaining internet fame at 19, Olivia has been using different platforms to promote the importance of physical and mental health. The Florida native, recently named SI Swimsuit’s New Social Media Editor, had signed up with Wilhelmina Models NYC and appeared in campaigns for Ralph Lauren. However, she’s prominent within the LGBTQ+ community after opening up to Teen Vogue about her bis*xuality during Pride Month. 

Yu Tsai Photographed Maye Musk In Belize. Swimsuit by Maygel Coronel & Bracelet by Viktoria Hayman.

Maye Musk remains a legend in the modeling industry with a career of almost 60years. She holds two master’s degrees in nutrition science and is a dietitian. In 2017, Maye became CoverGirl’s oldest spokesmodel at 69 and in 2019 released a memoir about her experiences titled: “A WOMAN MAKES A PLAN: ADVICE FOR A LIFETIME OF ADVENTURE, BEAUTY, AND SUCCESS. However, Maye was a finalist in the 1969 Miss South Africa beauty competition.

Derek Kettela Photographed Kamie Crawford In St. Croix. Swimsuit by NORMAILLOT, Earrings by Eklexic & Bracelet by Cartier.

The ex-Miss Teen USA hosts her relationship podcast, “Relationsh*t.” She’s committed to public service, using her influence to promote body diversity and racial equity, and advocates for marginalized groups and communities, making her an exceptional 2022 rookie. However, the co-host of MTV’s Catfish comes from a diverse background, including African American, Jamaican, English, Indian, Cuban and German ancestry.

Christen Harper Was Photographed By Ben Watts In Barbados. Set by Andi Bagus & Earrings by Mejuri.

The 2021 Swim Search co-winner uses her social media pages to spread positivity and partners with philanthropic firms to help both women and children in need. The model often receives cruel remarks from agents/clients to lose weight but remains true to herself.

James Macari Photographed Katie Austin In Montenegro. Swimsuit by Ola Vida & Bracelets by SOKO.

Katie is a certified fitness trainer and former Division I NCCA Athlete who has grown her brand with huge followings online. The 2021 Swim Search co-winner is a potent powerhouse representative for young entrepreneurs worldwide, inspiring millions as a host on a YouTube talk show and through her app for fitness. 

James Macari Photographed Duckie Thot In Montenegro. Swimsuit by Andi Bagus & Top by Zara.

In 2013, Thot appeared on Australia’s Next Top Model, which eventually led her to move to New York to make her runway debut in the Yeezy Spring/Summer 2017 show. She was aged 17 at the time but has since been a global ambassador for L’Oréal Paris and was even the face of Fenty Beauty. Thot is a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity, making her a pick to become a SI Swimsuit rookie.

Cindy Kimberly Was Photographed By Ben Watts In Barbados. Swimsuit by Yandy, Necklaces by Electric Picks, and En Route Jewelry.

Cindy attained fame in 2015 when Justin Bieber posted a photo of her on his Instagram. Soon after, the 23-Year-Old started appearing in music videos, including runway shows, and on magazine covers. However, the Amsterdam native is equally a dancer, and she’s set to release music. Accordingly, she’s presently working on her clothing brand.