Trailing Behind Olivia Dunne, Jordan Chiles Follows LSU Gymnast’s Path Amidst NCAA Return

Trailing Behind Olivia Dunne, Jordan Chiles Follows LSU Gymnast’s Path Amidst NCAA Return

Jordan Chiles is charting a new course following her heartbreak in Paris, transforming her momentum from the Gold Over America Tour into another promising milestone. Recently, Sports Illustrated revealed that the 23-year-old UCLA gymnast will feature in their 2025 Swimsuit Issue, stepping in as one of their star athletes. This announcement comes as Chiles heads to Boca Raton, where renowned photographer Ben Horton will capture her spirit and athletic grace for the May edition. The spotlight is already building for Chiles, who has expressed immense excitement for this opportunity.

In an interview, SI editor-in-chief MJ Day highlighted the magazine’s dedication to showcasing strong, influential women. “We are thrilled to launch our 2025 shoot season with an extraordinary lineup of powerful female athletes. This remarkable group, featuring Olympic medalists, world champions, and record holders, embodies the next generation of all-stars poised to transform the world of sports,” she said. The inclusion of Chiles signals a new era in which NCAA athletes can attain significant mainstream recognition. Chiles, like her LSU counterpart Olivia Dunne, exemplifies how college athletes are breaking stereotypes and barriers.

A Financial Game-Changer for NCAA Athletes

Jordan Chiles’ entry into Sports Illustrated’s iconic Swimsuit Issue is more than just an accolade—it marks a seismic shift in the opportunities available for female college athletes. The NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) regulations, allowing athletes to profit from their fame, have drastically changed the game. Previously, NCAA athletes faced numerous restrictions on endorsements and media engagements, but now, stars like Dunne and Chiles are stepping into the spotlight.

Olivia Dunne, the LSU gymnast who took the sports world by storm, has already set the stage for her fellow athletes. Since her debut as an SI Swimsuit model in 2023, Dunne has captivated audiences with her unique, balletcore-inspired style. Her photoshoot in Portugal was one of the highlights of the edition, and her influence quickly skyrocketed. Dunne’s continued success has not only made her a trailblazer in college sports but also expanded the financial opportunities for female athletes in the NCAA. With Jordan Chiles now stepping up, the dynamics of female college athletics are being reshaped as they earn recognition on mainstream platforms like Sports Illustrated.

Jordan Chiles’ NCAA Return and the Road Ahead

Following her stint with Team USA in Paris, Jordan Chiles announced her return to NCAA gymnastics, rejoining UCLA. Her comeback will undoubtedly elevate the NCAA’s visibility, with Chiles bringing her Olympic pedigree and an impressive list of achievements. As a two-time Olympian and gold medalist, her presence will bolster the marketing appeal of NCAA events. However, despite her accomplishments, Chiles has some catching up to do with Olivia Dunne in the realm of social media and financial endorsements.

While Olivia Dunne has an established fanbase and a robust endorsement portfolio, Chiles’ budding career offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape for NCAA athletes. As the 2025 Swimsuit Issue inches closer to release, the dynamic between Dunne and Chiles will only add intrigue to their parallel journeys, showcasing how college athletes are redefining success in sports and beyond.