Remi Bader Breaks Down in Tears After Finding Out She’s a “Sports Illustrated” “Swimsuit” Rookie — and So Does Her Mom

**Remi Bader Celebrates Emotional Recognition as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie of the Year**

Influencer and body positivity advocate Remi Bader has shared an emotional response upon being named one of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s 2026 Rookies of the Year. The announcement, made on her social media, has resonated powerfully with audiences, highlighting her journey and the support of her family during significant moments in her life.

In a heartfelt series of videos shared on Instagram, Bader, 30, captured the moment she received the news of her rookie honour. A clear display of disbelief marked her reaction when she learned the title; she responded with incredulity, uttering, “Wait, no, I didn’t. What are you talking… wait are you lying? Wait, are you serious?” Once confirmed, she was overcome with emotion and tears, shielding her face with her hand as the magnitude of the news sank in. “Oh my god, really?” she exclaimed, encapsulating the joy and surprise of the moment.

Bader’s excitement was further amplified as she later shared her mother Edina’s tearful reaction. In another clip, she enthusiastically informed her mother she would be featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, prompting an emotional response filled with pride. Edina placed her hand over her heart, astonished and asking, “No, are you kidding me?” When Remi confirmed it, her mother embraced her tightly, exclaiming, “I’m so proud of you.” This display of familial love underscored the significance of the achievement.

The emotional exchange between mother and daughter resonated with many viewers. Edina reflected on the difficult times her daughter had experienced, remembering, “I know that at the lowest point of your life, you said, ‘the one thing I want…’ and this was it.” The pride in her voice was palpable as she wiped away tears of joy, a moment that encapsulated the bond they share through life’s ups and downs.

In addition to the exciting announcement, Bader has been featured in a preview of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s 2026 issue, shot in Montauk, New York. The images include her in a striking red one-piece swimsuit, showcasing her confidence in front of the camera. Bader’s radiant smile and poised demeanor serve as an inspiration for aspiring models and advocates of body inclusivity.

This accolade comes after Bader made her runway debut at a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit event in May 2025, where she donned a two-piece navy swimsuit complemented by a stylish cowgirl hat. Just two months prior to the event, she opened up about her journey towards self-acceptance, revealing that she underwent gastric bypass surgery (SADI-S) in autumn 2023. Through her posts, she has been candid about her emotional and physical transformations over the past year and a half.

In addressing her journey, Bader remarked on the weight of her experiences, stating that she has felt “quite a range of emotions” since she shared her surgery story. She expressed her commitment to standing for “every girl or woman who’s felt lost about where she belongs.” Her narrative speaks to the power of resilience and self-expression, elements that resonate deeply with her followers.

Bader’s achievements highlight significant progress within the fashion industry towards embracing body diversity and inclusivity. Her story, enriched by her experiences and candid discussions of mental health, reflects a broader cultural movement that challenges conventional beauty norms.

As she embarks on this new chapter with Sports Illustrated, Bader’s journey is not only about personal triumph but also about sparking meaningful conversations around body image and self-acceptance. With her large platform, she continues to inspire fans with her authenticity and commitment to uplifting others through her narrative.

In a world that often promotes unrealistic standards of beauty, Bader stands out as a beacon of hope for those navigating their self-worth. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, support, and the strength that comes from sharing one’s vulnerabilities.