Get ready, fashionistas and sports enthusiasts, because a true trailblazer is about to light up the runway! Sunisa “Suni” Lee, the celebrated two-time Olympic gymnast and all-around gold medalist, is making waves yet again, this time by stepping into the dazzling world of high fashion. She’s set to walk the runway at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, a surprising yet incredibly powerful new role that merges her athletic excellence with pure glamour. It’s a moment that truly embodies confidence, transformation, and celebrating every facet of who you are.
Suni Lee’s journey to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show isn’t just about another celebrity appearance; it’s a testament to authenticity and an inspiring chapter in her already legendary story. She’s bringing her unique blend of grit, grace, and genuine self to a brand that’s powerfully reinventing itself with inclusivity and diversity at its heart. As Suni herself shared, it’s about ‘showing up here exactly as I am,’ and that message resonates deeply, promising to inspire countless young girls watching.
This isn’t just a fashion show; it’s a cultural moment that symbolizes wider progress, blending the worlds of elite sports and fashion accessibility with representation that truly matters. Suni’s presence on such a global stage, from Olympic podiums to the dazzling catwalk, is sure to captivate and inspire. We are absolutely buzzing with excitement to see her shine, proving that you can chase Olympic gold and still own every bit of your femininity and strength!
1. The Historic Victoria’s Secret Debut: A Fusion of Athleticism and Glamour
Mark your calendars, because Suni Lee’s runway debut at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is an event you won’t want to miss! This groundbreaking appearance is scheduled for October 15, 2025, and will be live-streamed on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube at 7 pm ET. It’s an exciting new chapter for the decorated Olympian, one that sees her transitioning from the demanding world of elite gymnastics to the glittering realm of high fashion in a truly surprising and exhilarating way.
Suni, already celebrated as a two-time Olympic gymnast and all-around gold medalist, is now set to make waves in an entirely different arena. Her participation is more than just a walk down a catwalk; it’s a powerful statement about the evolving landscape of fashion and the multifaceted nature of modern icons. She’s stepping into this role with an undeniable presence, bringing her unique athletic prowess and inspiring story to a global audience in a whole new light.
Her modeling debut symbolizes a significant cultural moment, fusing athletic excellence with fashion accessibility and crucial representation. Suni Lee will join a lineup that includes established supermodels like Gigi Hadid and fresh faces from sports and music, such as fellow athlete and WNBA star Angel Reese. This diverse cast showcases a powerful commitment to celebrating various forms of beauty and achievement, making the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show an unmissable event that champions individuality.
2. Breaking Barriers: The First Hmong-American Olympic All-Around Gold Medalist
Before gracing the Victoria’s Secret runway, Suni Lee etched her name into history books with an unparalleled achievement at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (held in 2021). She soared to the individual all-around gold medal, becoming the fifth consecutive American woman to claim this coveted prize. This victory was not just a personal triumph but a moment of profound cultural significance, marking her as the first Hmong-American to win Olympic all-around gold. It was a victory that resonated far beyond the gymnastics arena, inspiring millions globally.
Suni’s trailblazing journey is deeply intertwined with her Hmong-American heritage. She is not only the first Hmong-American Olympian but also the first Asian American woman to capture the Olympic all-around title. Furthermore, she was reported to be the first all-around Asian champion of any nationality. Her parents, Yeev Thoj and John Lee, are Hmong refugees from Laos who fled to the United States during the Vietnam War. This background imbues her achievements with an even deeper layer of meaning, representing perseverance and breaking barriers for an entire community.
This historic success at the Olympics laid the foundation for her current ventures, showcasing a spirit of relentless determination and an unwavering commitment to opening doors. Her ability to achieve such unprecedented feats in gymnastics speaks volumes about her character, a strength she now carries onto the fashion runway. Suni Lee has consistently demonstrated that she is a pioneer, whether she’s performing a complex routine on the uneven bars or making a bold statement in the world of fashion.
3. A Dream Beyond the Comfort Zone: Why Suni Said “Yes” to VS
For many, walking in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show might seem like a natural fit for an Olympic champion, but for Suni Lee, it represented a venture far ‘outside of her comfort zone.’ She candidly shared with Marie Claire that being selected for Victoria’s Secret ‘felt like a dream outside of my comfort zone,’ yet it was precisely this unfamiliarity that drew her in. This willingness to embrace new challenges, even those unexpected, is a hallmark of her inspiring career.
Suni’s decision to accept this remarkable opportunity speaks volumes about her adventurous spirit. ‘That’s exactly why I said yes,’ she explained, highlighting her desire to push boundaries and explore new facets of her identity beyond the gymnastics mat. It’s a powerful message that you don’t have to stay confined to what you’re known for; true growth often happens when you dare to step into the unknown and try something completely different.
What’s even more fascinating is that this venture wasn’t something she meticulously planned or prepared for. Suni admitted, ‘Honestly, I didn’t have much time to prepare for this, and that was probably for the best.’ This spontaneous approach allowed her to ‘show up here exactly as I am,’ without the pressure of conforming to preconceived notions. It’s a testament to her authentic self, proving that true beauty and confidence shine brightest when you’re simply being yourself, unafraid and unedited.
4. Victoria’s Secret’s Evolving Vision: Inclusivity Takes Center Stage
Suni Lee’s presence on the Victoria’s Secret runway is not just a personal milestone; it’s a vibrant reflection of a brand undergoing a significant and much-welcomed reinvention. Since its highly anticipated return to the airwaves in 2024, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has revised its approach to casting with inclusivity at the very forefront. This strategic shift is consciously moving away from the traditional, narrow ‘Angel’ archetype that once defined the brand, embracing a broader, more diverse vision of beauty and empowerment.
This exciting evolution means that the new generation of Angels aren’t one-size, age, or background-fits-all, as they might have seemed in earlier iterations of the show. Instead, the lineup now proudly combines established supermodels with fresh faces from an array of worlds, including sports and music. This commitment to diversity ensures that the runway reflects the rich tapestry of global talent and individual stories, celebrating beauty in all its forms and dimensions. It’s a powerful move that resonates deeply with a contemporary audience craving authentic representation.
Suni Lee, with her unique background as an elite athlete and Hmong-American trailblazer, perfectly embodies this new, inclusive spirit. Her participation directly underscores the Fashion Show’s evolution, merging athletic excellence with fashion accessibility and vital representation. Her story, marked by hard work, resilience, and groundbreaking achievements, makes her an ideal ambassador for a brand dedicated to celebrating individuality and strength. This new Victoria’s Secret is a testament to progress, showing that powerful narratives and diverse identities can truly elevate the world of fashion.
5. Empowering the Next Generation: Suni’s Message to Young Girls
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the runway, Suni Lee carries a profoundly empowering message for young girls everywhere, especially those from underrepresented communities. She passionately articulated, ‘Growing up, I didn’t see many girls who looked like me in spaces like this.’ This personal reflection underscores the critical importance of visible representation, showing how her presence can break down barriers and open up new possibilities for those who might not typically see themselves reflected in mainstream media and fashion.
Suni’s journey from Olympic glory to the high-fashion runway is a powerful testament to hard work and perseverance, and she wants to share that strength with the world. ‘To now be here as an athlete, as someone who’s worked so hard to achieve her dreams, it feels powerful,’ she stated. This feeling of empowerment is what she hopes to impart to the next generation, inspiring them to recognize their own potential and the strength that comes from embracing their unique identities and aspirations. She’s a living example that dedication truly pays off.
Her core message is a vibrant call to action: ‘I want young girls to know they don’t have to fit into just one box. You can chase Olympic gold and still own your femininity.’ This beautifully articulated sentiment encourages young individuals to pursue diverse ambitions while confidently celebrating every facet of their identity and strength. Suni wants them to see ‘that they can own every version of themselves, strong, soft, bold, or glamorous,’ proving that there are no limits to what they can achieve or who they can be.
6. Sporty Meets Glam: Styling the Victoria’s Secret Pink Line
Prepare for a segment that promises to be both stylish and comfortable, as Suni Lee will proudly model for Victoria’s Secret Pink, the brand’s sportier line. This specific segment of the fashion show is designed to showcase a delightful blend of athleticism and glamour, perfectly tailored to Suni’s dynamic persona. It’s an ideal platform for her to demonstrate how activewear can be both functional and fashion-forward, blurring the lines between performance and high style.
Suni herself couldn’t contain her excitement about the ensemble she’ll be wearing, describing it as ‘literally the coziest thing ever.’ She enthused that it brilliantly combines ‘sporty meets glam in the best way,’ hinting at a look that is both comfortable for movement and incredibly chic. While she couldn’t reveal her full micro short, bra top, and hoodie before the show, her description alone sparks immense anticipation for the unique aesthetic she’ll bring to the runway.
This collaboration with Victoria’s Secret Pink is a natural fit for Suni, allowing her to leverage her athletic background while embracing her blossoming fashion sensibilities. It perfectly captures the essence of a modern woman who is strong, active, and effortlessly stylish. The ‘sporty meets glam’ vibe she champions will undoubtedly inspire many to embrace comfort without sacrificing an ounce of their inherent flair, showcasing that you can absolutely have the best of both worlds.
7. The Unforgettable Angel Wings and Bombshell Glam Makeover
No Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show appearance is complete without those iconic elements that make it truly special, and Suni Lee is embracing them all with enthusiastic anticipation! She expressed particular excitement about wearing her own pair of signature angel wings. While these aren’t the traditional, elaborate wings seen on some Angels, hers will be sneakily and stylishly ‘sewn into her VS Pink hoodie as more of an embellishment,’ adding a playful and unique touch to her sporty-glam look. It’s a creative twist that perfectly integrates the iconic symbol with the brand’s evolving, inclusive vision.
Beyond the wings, Suni is absolutely thrilled to experience the full ‘bombshell glam’ makeover, a hallmark of the Victoria’s Secret show. This transformation will be orchestrated by none other than the famed makeup artist Dame Pat McGrath, known for her revolutionary and glamorous artistry. Suni, who already loves to ‘wear my hair blown out because it instantly makes me feel confident and put together,’ is eager to see how this supermodel treatment will ‘take the look to a whole other level.’ It’s about more than just makeup; it’s about a complete artistic vision that enhances natural beauty and confidence.
Embracing these quintessential Victoria’s Secret signatures is a testament to Suni’s willingness to fully immerse herself in this new experience. The combination of the subtly integrated wings and the expert beauty transformation is set to create a truly memorable and empowering moment. It highlights her journey of self-discovery and transformation, allowing her to step into the spotlight not just as an Olympic champion, but as a confident and glamorous fashion icon, ready to inspire with every step down the runway.
8. The Spark Ignites: Suni Lee’s Junior Career and Early Promise
Before she was an Olympic gold medalist gracing fashion runways, Suni Lee’s journey began with the purest form of childhood wonder. Her passion for gymnastics sparked at the tender age of six after watching the sport on TV. This early interest was lovingly nurtured by her father, who, in a truly heartwarming gesture, constructed a balance beam in their backyard for her to practice on, setting the stage for a remarkable future.
Her undeniable talent quickly caught the eye of coach Jess Graba at Midwest Gymnastics Center, where she began training. By 2015, Suni was competing in the Hopes division, swiftly advancing to junior elite status in 2016 and making her debut at the U.S. Classic. Her dedication paid off, earning her a spot on the junior national team in 2017, a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career.
Suni made her international debut at the Gymnix International Junior Cup that same year, where the U.S. team clinched the gold medal in the team event, and she personally secured a silver medal on uneven bars, her undeniable specialty. Her commitment to Auburn University on a gymnastics scholarship in May 2017 signaled her ambitious path, promising a future filled with collegiate and elite success. Later, at the 2018 Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships, she soared, winning gold with the U.S. team and grabbing silver medals on vault, balance beam, and floor exercise, while also placing fourth in the all-around.
9. Ascending to the Senior Stage: Triumphs and Tribulations of 2019
Suni Lee’s transition to the senior elite circuit in 2019 was nothing short of spectacular, despite being riddled with challenges. Her international senior debut at the 2019 City of Jesolo Trophy in Italy saw her claim the all-around title and contribute to the U.S. team’s gold. She further dominated, taking first on uneven bars and floor, and securing a bronze on the balance beam, truly showcasing her multifaceted talent.
However, this breakout year was also plagued by injuries, including an ankle issue and a hairline fracture to her left tibia from a balance beam dismount. Yet, with an incredible display of resilience, Suni competed on all four events at the 2019 U.S. Championships while still recovering. She finished an impressive second in the all-around behind the legendary Simone Biles, captured gold on uneven bars, and added a bronze on floor, earning her a coveted spot on the national team.
Her outstanding performance at the world team selection camp, where she placed second in the all-around to Biles, solidified her place on the 2019 World Championships team. As the only first-year senior and team member without prior World Championships experience, Suni’s presence was a testament to her extraordinary talent. She played a crucial role in the U.S. team’s gold medal victory, and individually, she soared to win a bronze medal on uneven bars and a silver medal in the floor exercise final, marking a truly unforgettable debut on the world stage.
10. The Unforeseen Path to Tokyo: Navigating Injuries and Delays (2020-2021)
The road to the Tokyo Olympics for Suni Lee was anything but smooth, marked by unexpected global events and personal setbacks. The year 2020 began with the cancellation of the Stuttgart World Cup due to the COVID-19 pandemic, disrupting her competition schedule. More significantly, her gym closed temporarily, and upon returning, she suffered a broken bone in her left foot, sidelining her for two months. This was compounded by an Achilles tendon injury, extending her recovery for another two months.
Despite these profound physical challenges, Suni remained focused on her future, officially committing to Auburn University in November 2020 by signing her National Letter of Intent. Her return to competition in 2021 at the Winter Cup saw her bravely compete on uneven bars and balance beam, securing first on bars and third on beam, demonstrating her enduring skill even after months of injury.
She continued to build momentum, placing first on bars and beam at the 2021 American Classic, an incredible display of her determination. While the U.S. Classic later in May presented a slight setback with falls on both apparatus, Suni’s resilience shone through at the 2021 U.S. Championships. There, she won silver in the all-around behind Simone Biles, finished first on uneven bars, and second on balance beam, powerfully qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials, her dreams firmly back on track.
11. Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games: An Unforgettable Gold Medal Moment
The delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, held from July 23 to August 8, 2021, became the stage for Suni Lee’s most iconic triumphs. During qualifications, she competed on all four events, finishing third overall in the all-around and securing spots in the individual all-around, uneven bars, and balance beam finals. The U.S. team also advanced to the final in second place, setting the scene for an electrifying competition.
In a dramatic turn of events during the team final, after Simone Biles’ withdrawal, Suni bravely stepped up to replace her on floor exercise. She delivered impeccably clean routines, scoring an outstanding 15.400 on bars and 14.133 on beam, playing a pivotal role in the U.S. team securing the silver medal. It was a testament to her composure under immense pressure, showcasing her leadership when her team needed her most.
The individual all-around final truly cemented her place in Olympic history. With a total score of 57.433, Suni Lee soared to claim the gold medal, becoming the sixth U.S. woman to earn this coveted title and the first Hmong-American Olympian. This historic victory also marked her as the first Asian American woman and the first all-around Asian champion of any nationality to win Olympic all-around gold, inspiring millions across the globe. She later added a bronze medal in the uneven bars final, capping off an extraordinary Olympic debut, and in recognition of her success, July 30, 2021, was declared “Sunisa Lee Day” in Minnesota.
12. NCAA Reign: Suni Lee’s Dominance at Auburn University (2021-2023)
Following her historic Olympic run, Suni Lee embarked on a new chapter, transitioning from elite gymnastics to collegiate competition at Auburn University in August 2021. Her NCAA debut on January 7, 2022, was a resounding success, competing on uneven bars and balance beam to help Auburn secure a victory. She swiftly made her all-around debut, winning the title outright and sharing individual bars and beam honors, quickly earning her first SEC freshman of the week accolade.
Her collegiate career was marked by a series of spectacular achievements, including her first collegiate perfect ten on the uneven bars on February 5, 2022, a feat that made her only the sixth Auburn gymnast and the first since 2004 to achieve this. She continued her streak, earning her first perfect ten on the balance beam later that month and becoming the first collegiate gymnast to perform a Nabieva on the uneven bars, cementing her status as a collegiate star.
At the 2022 NCAA Championship, Suni further showcased her exceptional talent, finishing first on balance beam and securing second in the all-around. In November 2022, she announced that the 2022-2023 season would be her final year at Auburn, driven by her ambitious goal of returning to elite gymnastics for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. She started that season in grand style, winning both the balance beam title with another perfect 10 and the all-around title at the inaugural Super 16 event in Las Vegas.
13. A Courageous Battle: Overcoming Kidney Disease and Returning to Elite (2023)
Just as Suni Lee was setting her sights on a return to elite gymnastics for the Paris 2024 Olympics, she faced an unforeseen and deeply personal challenge. In March 2023, she was diagnosed with an unspecified rare kidney disease, experiencing alarming symptoms like swelling and water retention. This health battle forced her to make the difficult decision to end her sophomore season early in April, concluding her remarkable NCAA gymnastics career.
This period was incredibly challenging, as doctors conveyed that a return to the Games might not be possible, plunging Suni into months of depression and self-doubt. Her journey involved a grueling search for the perfect treatment that would allow her to regain her health and pursue her Olympic dreams. It was a true testament to her fighting spirit and unwavering determination, refusing to let this setback define her.
Despite these profound health issues, Suni made a triumphant comeback to elite gymnastics in August 2023 at the U.S. Classic, bravely qualifying for the U.S. Championships on balance beam and vault. A few weeks later, she competed at the 2023 U.S. Championships in San Jose, impressively winning a bronze medal on the balance beam. However, prioritizing her long-term health, she made the difficult decision to opt out of the World Championships and Pan American Games selection camp, citing her kidney-related health issues, showcasing immense maturity and self-awareness.
14. Paris 2024 Olympic Triumphs: A Resilient Return to the Podium
Suni Lee’s journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was nothing short of a powerful comeback story, culminating in further Olympic glory. After navigating a challenging start to her 2024 season, including rough performances at the Winter Cup, she found her stride, placing first on balance beam at both the American Classic and the Core Hydration Classic, where she also debuted her floor exercise for the first time since the Tokyo Olympics.
Her resilience shone brightly at the Xfinity US Gymnastics Championships, where despite some downgraded routines and a vault fall, she finished an impressive fourth all-around and secured a silver medal on the balance beam. This performance earned her a well-deserved spot on the U.S. National Team and an invitation to the Olympic trials, bringing her one step closer to her dream.
At the Olympic trials, Suni delivered a phenomenal performance, placing second in the all-around and first on uneven bars, securing her selection to represent the United States at the 2024 Summer Olympics alongside an incredible team. In Paris, she was a pivotal force, contributing scores on uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise to help the U.S. national team clinch their fourth overall Olympic team gold medal.
Individually, Suni continued to make history, winning a bronze medal in the all-around final. This incredible feat made her the first reigning Olympic all-around champion since Nadia Comăneci in 1980 to medal in the event at the subsequent Olympic Games. She further added to her medal haul with another bronze in the uneven bars final, solidifying her legacy and expressing, “I think I am finally understanding how good of a gymnast I am and that all of the hard work that I did definitely does pay off, that I do deserve to be happy.”
15. Beyond Gymnastics: Suni Lee’s Inspiring Impact and Future Ventures
Suni Lee’s influence extends far beyond the gymnastics arena, touching lives through her inspiring story and diverse ventures. Her Hmong-American heritage is a cornerstone of her identity, as she stands as the first Hmong-American Olympian, and the first Asian American woman to win the Olympic all-around title. Her parents, Yeev Thoj and John Lee, are Hmong refugees from Laos, imbuing her achievements with deep cultural significance and representing perseverance for an entire community.
Beyond sports, Suni has ventured into the world of entertainment and fashion, showcasing her multifaceted talent. In 2021, she was featured in the documentary series ‘Golden: The Journey of USA’s Elite Gymnasts,’ offering a behind-the-scenes look at her incredible journey. That same year, she charmed audiences as a contestant on the 30th season of ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ where she and her partner Sasha Farber danced their way to a respectable fifth place, proving her versatility and captivating presence.
Her collaborations in the fashion industry are equally impressive, highlighting her growing influence. In 2021, she partnered with GK Elite to launch her own exclusive line of leotards, blending athletic performance with style. The following year, she introduced a stunning collection in partnership with the British fashion brand PrettyLittleThing, further solidifying her status as a burgeoning fashion icon. Her impact has been recognized with prestigious awards, including Sports Illustrated’s Female Athlete of the Year in 2021 and an Asia Game Changer Award the same year.
Suni is also deeply committed to philanthropy, making generous donations to her former elementary school and partnering with organizations like the American Kidney Fund, channeling her success into meaningful causes. Her powerful message for young girls—”I want young girls to know they don’t have to fit into just one box. You can chase Olympic gold and still own your femininity”—is a vibrant call to action. She hopes they see “that they can own every version of themselves, strong, soft, bold, or glamorous,” proving that there are no limits to what they can achieve or who they can be.
As Suni Lee prepares to grace the Victoria’s Secret runway, embodying strength, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression, her journey serves as a beacon of inspiration. From humble beginnings and backyard beams to Olympic gold and high fashion, she exemplifies that dreams know no bounds, and authenticity shines brightest. So, get ready to be inspired, because Suni Lee is not just walking a runway; she’s walking into a new era of empowerment, reminding us all to step into our power, exactly as we are, and truly trust ourselves.
