Follow Ongoogle logo News Follow Onwhats app logo

ESPN The Magazine is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its body issue. And, what would be an ideal way than portraying 10 unique yet inspiring cover images, including one that features a LGBTQ couple pose together, first for the magazine’s history.

“The Body Issue” series represents human physique and function

The couple was motivated to spread the message of gender equality. Women’s sports WNBA star Sue Bird and professional soccer player Megan Rapinoe were featured together in this year’s magazine.

READ: First Transgender Model Features On Vogue Cover

The highly-anticipated body issue every year features athletes from different perspective. This year, they aim to bring diversity. The magazine also includes three other women on the covers: soccer player Crystal Dunn, softball player Lauren Chamberlain, and basketball star Breanna Stewart – each one’s portraying uniqueness in  diverse way.

Editor-in-chief Alison Overholt describes the annual publication as a “[celebration of] the athletic form – in every shape and size – and to allow people to stop and marvel at the works of art these bodies truly are.”

In the past, transgender athlete Chris Mosier has been featured, and veteran paralympian Kristie Ennis has also posed for the iconic issue. But this is for the first time, an LGBTQ couple has been featured.

Also Read: Anjali Lama – First Nepali Transgender Model To Debut At The Lakme Fashion Week

Check out some images from the magazine:

Creators believes the idea to bring out the body issue was to challenge beauty magazines’ traditional notions. Each magazine showcases bodily perfection, and leads readers to unreal beauty and to celebrate athletic prowess in all its forms.

Also Read: Weaving magic for transgender women: A unique initiative by a Kerala designer

Feature Image Credit: ESPN The Magazine

Meet Bishesh Huirem – The first Indian transgender woman at ‘Miss International Beauty Queen’ contest

Read More Stories By Ria Das

Get the best of SheThePeople delivered to your inbox - subscribe to Our Power Breakfast Newsletter. Follow us on Twitter , Instagram , Facebook and on YouTube, and stay in the know of women who are standing up, speaking out, and leading change.