Plus-Size Model Ashley Graham Talks Historic ‘Sports Illustrated’ Swimsuit Cover

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Sports Illustrated has announced that their iconic swimsuit issue will feature three different cover models. Model Hailey Clauson, MMA star Ronda Rousey, and plus-size model Ashley Graham were all selected for the cover, a first in the issue’s 52-year history. But according SI Swimsuit editor MJ Day, this decision was a no-brainer. “It was so obvious when we were looking at all of our photo selects,” said Day. “So when I saw the beautiful picture of Ashley, the beautiful picture of Hailey, and the beautiful picture of Ronda, it wasn’t ‘Are we gonna do this?’ It was ‘This is happening.’”

The varying body types of the three women made this a groundbreaking choice. While Clauson fulfills the more “traditional” swimsuit look, Rousey’s muscular physique and Graham’s signature curves also grace the cover. “I thought we were … revolutionizing by putting a size-16 girl in the actual pages,” explained Graham. “And then for MJ to put me on the cover, I mean, don’t even get me started ’cause I might start crying.” Each model took to Instagram after the announcement to express her gratitude to Sports Illustrated for the opportunity to represent the historic brand.

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