Sophie Cunningham Leads Athletes in 2026 SI Swimsuit Issue Debut
Exciting news is on the horizon as the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue prepares to feature three remarkable female athletes: Sophie Cunningham, Napheesa Collier, and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden. Their debut in this iconic magazine is set for release in May. These women have become empowering role models for aspiring athletes across the nation.
Sophie Cunningham: A Multi-Talented Role Model
Sophie Cunningham, 29, is currently an unrestricted free agent. She aims to negotiate a new contract with the Indiana Fever. Last season, she gained recognition for her role as Caitlin Clark’s “enforcer,” showcasing her versatility on the court.
“This is probably one of the most empowering things that I have done ever,” said Cunningham. She plans to channel her success in sports into her upcoming broadcasting career, debuting in 2026 on the USA Network for WNBA coverage.
Napheesa Collier: A Force on the Court
Napheesa Collier, also 29, is coming off an exceptional season, earning MVP accolades and leading the Minnesota Lynx to the semifinals of the playoffs. She co-founded Unrivaled, a women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, and serves as the vice president of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA).
The WNBPA recently struck a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), promising improved conditions for women in basketball, including higher salaries and a fairer revenue-sharing model. Collier received a core qualifying offer from the Lynx, ensuring her a lucrative deal—projected at $1.4 million under the new CBA.
Melissa Jefferson-Wooden: Track and Field Champion
At 25, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden stands out as a five-time World Champion in track and field. A native of South Carolina, she earned two Olympic medals at the 2024 Paris Games: gold in the women’s 4×100-meter relay and bronze in the individual 100-meter dash.
In 2025, she made history by clinching gold in three events at the World Championships: the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 4×100-meter relay. This achievement makes her the first American to accomplish this and only the second woman in history, following Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. “A dream come true,” said Jefferson-Wooden about her triumphs.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Cunningham, Collier, and Jefferson-Wooden in the 2026 SI Swimsuit Issue is a celebration of female empowerment in sports. These athletes continue to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams, proving that they can both excel in their sports and make a significant impact off the field.
