Jena Sims Named Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie for 2024 Issue

Jena Sims, the former pageant winner and spouse of professional golfer Brooks Koepka, has achieved a significant milestone in her career as she is named a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie for the magazine’s 2024 issue. This honor places her alongside other remarkable talents who participated in the 2023 SI Swim Search. Sims’ journey to this achievement has been nothing short of inspiring.

The Journey to Becoming a Swimsuit Rookie

The announcement came as a delightful surprise to Sims, who had been sworn to secrecy until the official unveiling. Her initial reaction was one of pure emotion, with tears streaming down her face as she watched the SI Swimsuit announcement video during a Zoom call in Miami. Sims reflected on this moment, stating, “I didn’t even mind the fact that I was crying in public!” This heartfelt reaction captures the significance of this recognition in her life.

Meet the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookies

What makes Sims’ story even more remarkable is that she auditioned for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit while she was eight months pregnant, defying the conventional expectations of what a swimsuit model should look like. Her runway walk during Miami Swim Week, clad in a sexy green string bikini, proudly showcasing her baby bump, was a memorable highlight. Shortly after this bold and beautiful appearance, Sims and Koepka welcomed their son, Crew, into the world.

Breaking Stereotypes: Sims Auditions While Pregnant

Apart from her modeling career, Jena Sims is a 34-year-old nonprofit CEO and fashion designer. She has also initiated numerous philanthropic endeavors, including her involvement with the Pageant of Hope, which focuses on building confidence, self-esteem, and inner beauty in children and teenagers. Sims’ passion for helping people and spreading joy aligns closely with the values of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit.

The Legacy of SI Swim Search Winners

Sims’ selection as a Swimsuit Rookie is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She is eager to leverage this new platform to continue her charitable initiatives and nonprofit events. Among her partnerships is Baby Quest, an organization that provides financial assistance to individuals facing the high costs of fertility procedures.

Sims’ journey to becoming a Swimsuit Rookie is part of a legacy that includes notable figures like Kathy Ireland, Christie Brinkley, Elle Macpherson, Kate Upton, and Ashley Graham, all of whom used Sports Illustrated Swimsuit as a launching pad for their modeling careers.

In addition to Jena Sims, six other talented women were named as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookies in 2023. These women come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective to the world of modeling and fashion. They include Achieng Agutu, Nina Cash, Sharina Gutierrez, Penny Lane, Brittney Nicole, and Berkleigh Wright.

This recognition signifies the continuing tradition of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Swim Search, which provides opportunities for aspiring and established models to showcase their talent. The 2023 edition saw thousands of submissions, with 12 finalists selected to move forward. These finalists then participated in the brand’s annual Swim Week runway show in Miami, marking a significant milestone in their careers.

A Legacy of Redefining Beauty Standards

As Jena Sims takes her place among the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookies, she embraces the opportunity to redefine beauty standards and inspire others with her remarkable journey, showing that strength, confidence, and determination know no boundaries. Her story is a testament to breaking stereotypes and celebrating inner beauty.