10 Incredible Photos of Co-Rookie of the Year Christen Harper in Barbados

The model was discovered during the brand’s Swim Search in 2021.

Christen Harper was photographed by Ben Watts in Barbados.

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Christen Harper made her SI Swimsuit debut in 2021 when she was declared co-winner of the brand’s Swim Search. The year after her open casting call victory, Harper was named co-Rookie of the Year (alongside real-life bestie Katie Austin).

The Southern California native is a body positivity and self-love advocate who initially started to pursue her career in modeling at the age of 20. Harper received her bachelor’s degree from California State University and she’s also an experienced actress. She has appeared in films like Auggie and The Obituary of Tunde Johnson.

For her first SI Swimsuit Issue appearance, Harper traveled to Atlantic City, where she was photographed by Yu Tsai. Last year, the model went to Barbados, where Ben Watts snapped her photos.

“I cannot believe I am in the magazine this year as a rookie,” Harper exclaimed on location in Barbados. “I’m coming from Swim Search and it’s so exciting to just be back with the team, it feels like family and I’m just so excited for such a fun day ahead.”

Harper added that when she learned of her rookie status, she “screamed and cried” in celebration and immediately called Austin—who had just received the same incredible news.

Below are 10 of our favorite images from Harper’s photo shoot in Barbados.

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

Ben Watts/Sports Illustrated

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