The former pro golfer called her shot “liberating.”
Paige Spiranac debuted in the 2018 SI Swimsuit Issue. The then 24-year-old posed for photographer James Macari in Aruba.
Spiranac, 29, was a Division I golfer at the University of Arizona and San Diego State before playing professionally. Today, retired athletes are social media personalities who don’t hesitate to participate in hot topics such as female athletes showing off their bodies for the NIL trade and best practices for recruiting college athletes. .
Ahead of her debut SI Swimsuit photo shoot, Spiranac tried to emulate other models, but SI Swimsuit editor-in-chief MJ Day advised her to just be herself.
“In my opinion [that] It was the moment I stopped comparing myself to them.
Her photoshoot in Aruba has empowered her like never before. She called the experience her “liberation” and said it was one of her best days of her life.
“I felt so strong. I’ve never felt so strong, confident and sexy before,” Spiranac said.
“It’s been a really powerful moment for me to finally embrace this sexy side and feel confident in loving myself and loving my skin. I’m so grateful,” she continued.
Below are 10 of our favorite photos from Spiranac’s photoshoot, where her strength and confidence shine through.
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated
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James Macari/Sports Illustrated