Anna Hall Faces Fears as She Joins Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Tokyo, Japan — Anna Hall is opening up about her fears and the journey that brought her to a significant moment in her career. The 24-year-old American heptathlete has earned bronze and silver medals at World Championships, but this time, she’s discussing her inclusion in Sports Illustrated’s 2025 swimsuit issue.

Receiving the phone call to be part of this celebrated annual photoshoot was both thrilling and intimidating for Hall. Known for featuring top athletes and models, the issue represents a platform for women in sports. Hall, who always looked up to previous athletes featured in the magazine, felt the pressure of exposing her body in a way she had never considered.

“She looked so strong,” Hall said, reminiscing about how previous models inspired her. “That wasn’t what you were seeing, and muscles weren’t being glorified. I remember what that did for me.” Despite her hesitation, she jumped at the chance to showcase a track and field body.

Hall recalls moments from middle school when classmates compared her muscular legs to comic book superheroes like the Hulk. The challenges of body image among female athletes are familiar to her, as she navigated her rise in the sport. After winning a bronze in the 2022 World Championships and upgrading to silver in 2023 despite an injury, she began receiving negative comments online about her muscular physique.

“Things like that weren’t always the nicest to hear,” she said. “Body image is something that I’ve had to work through on my own.” Hall empathizes with fellow female athletes facing similar struggles.

Competing in her first international championship in 2018, Hall felt insecure among her peers who had more traditionally accepted physiques. “I had to disconnect how I look or how others look from performance,” she explained. “Everyone’s body looks different.”

In recent years, the visibility of strong female athletes has increased, yet Hall worries about persistent pushback against strong women in sports. “There’s always going to be men who don’t like strong women,” she said. “People can be very loud if you choose to listen to the negativity.”

Instead of succumbing to pressure, Hall embraces her strength. After a remarkable performance at the Gotzis multi-events meeting, where she scored the second-highest heptathlon score of all time, she reflects on her growth. “I grew up a little bit as an athlete because I didn’t even feel that ready to go,” she said. “It really encouraged me because I’m still waiting on my speed to come back.”

Now, as she prepares for the World Championships, Hall has a renewed sense of confidence. She faces the competition with determination, knowing the journey has shaped her into a formidable athlete. “I’ve grown a lot since then and gotten a lot more comfortable with accepting that I belong here,” she noted.

Tomorrow, Hall will compete as one of the favorites, ready to showcase her strength and resilience on the world stage.