After clinching gold at the Paris Olympics, Suni Lee decided to take a much-needed break from gymnastics to focus on her health, battling an underlying kidney disease. But stepping back from the mat didn’t mean stepping out of the spotlight. Trading her leotard for a vibrant swimsuit, Lee made a stunning debut in the modeling world with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit after turning heads again as a model at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last month. While critics had plenty to say about her new ventures, is she paying them any mind?

Not a chance. While speaking to People magazine, the athlete addressed the backlash surrounding her runway debut. The gymnast revealed that critics targeted her appearance, saying she wasn’t the typical “model type.” She explained, “Honestly, there were just a lot of people mad because I’m not tall and skinny or wasn’t [considered] a real model. At the end of the day, I was there and [the critics] weren’t, so it was just really exciting.” 

Suni Lee joined a dazzling lineup of newcomers who stole the spotlight at Victoria’s Secret’s star-studded comeback show. Relishing her moment in the limelight, the Olympic champion reflected on her new chapter, saying, “This is the first time I’ve really taken a break from gymnastics, so diving into something other than that has been really, really different. But, also, probably the best experience of my life.”

Since stepping away from the gym mats following her victories in Paris last summer, Lee has spent this year exploring new arenas, from striking modeling poses to mingling with Hollywood’s elite; she has been doing everything. On November 4, the Olympic gold medalist graced the Glamour Women of the Year Awards in New York City, joining a glittering lineup of A-list stars, including her “queen,” Beyonce. Donning a shiny red dress and rocking a sleek hairdo, Lee proved that she is just built differently as she continues to pursue her interest in fashion after moving to NYC.

As Suni Lee grows more comfortable exploring her passions beyond gymnastics, one question keeps circling among fans: Will she return to compete at her home Olympics in 2028? For now, that remains anyone’s guess, as the six-time Olympic medalist has admitted the prospect is far from her mind, though she’s yet to make any concrete statement about the fact. This year, Lee has poured her energy into embracing new hobbies while also using her platform to raise awareness about kidney disease and mental health.

Suni Lee’s advice to keep checking in on friends

During an interview at the 2025 Glamour Women of the Year Awards, Lee shared that she enjoys sending thoughtful texts or flowers to friends who are going through mental health struggles. “For me, I love to do daily check-ins. I mean I call my friends every single day, even if it’s just like for a short second. But I also love sending them things, whether it’s sending them flowers or a nice text everyday, and just making sure that they’re okay,” said the Gymnast.

She further added, “Because I know for me, when I was struggling they were the ones that were there for me, and I love to just offer out all my love and everything else to anybody that needs it.” Having struggled with depression in the past, Lee understands the importance of someone checking in during difficult times; a simple text or call can feel like a glimmer of hope for someone surrounded by darkness.

At the Glamour Women of the Year Awards, Suni Lee was named one of the Women of the Year, solidifying her status as one of the most beloved gymnasts in the U.S.