The iconic sands of Belize have seen their share of sun-kissed beauty, but few moments have made waves quite like this. Maye Musk, the 77-year-old supermodel and mother of tech billionaire Elon Musk, has just graced the cover of Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit issue, making a bold statement about age, resilience, and reinvention.

Wearing a striking one-piece suit by Colombian designer Maygel Coronel, Maye Musk stands poised and powerful against the turquoise Caribbean, her silver hair gleaming in the tropical light. For many, it’s a jaw-dropping sight—proof that beauty, confidence, and strength know no age.

But behind the glamour of the cover shoot is a story that’s even more compelling: Maye Musk’s decades-long journey of perseverance, single motherhood, and self-discovery.

A Moment That Shatters Stereotypes

Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue has always pushed boundaries, but this year’s edition is about more than just swimwear—it’s about celebrating women who defy expectations. Maye Musk’s appearance is a headline-making reminder that the runway doesn’t end at 40, 50, or even 70.

“I never thought I’d be a cover girl at this age,” Maye told the magazine. “But I’m living proof that you can reinvent yourself at any time. You just have to be brave enough to try.”

For readers who have followed her journey, this moment feels like a victory lap. Maye Musk isn’t just Elon’s mom, or the grandmother who cheers from the sidelines—she’s a trailblazer in her own right. And her story is one of grit, grace, and relentless optimism.

From South Africa to the World Stage

Born in Canada and raised in South Africa, Maye Musk’s early years were far from easy. She began modeling as a teenager, but her life took a dramatic turn when she became a single mother raising three children—Elon, Kimbal, and Tosca—on her own.

Money was tight, and the future was uncertain. “There were nights when I didn’t know how I’d pay the bills,” Maye recalled in a recent interview. “But I always told my kids: if you work hard, and stay curious, you can overcome anything.”

Her children took those words to heart. Elon Musk, now a household name as the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, credits his mother’s resilience and encouragement as key to his own success. Kimbal Musk has become a restaurateur and food activist, while Tosca Musk is a filmmaker and entrepreneur.

The Struggles Behind the Smile

While the world sees Maye Musk as a glamorous icon, she’s never shied away from sharing the challenges she’s faced. In her memoir, “A Woman Makes a Plan,” Maye opens up about her struggles with domestic abuse, financial hardship, and the difficulties of raising children on her own.

“There were times when it felt impossible,” she writes. “But I refused to let fear dictate my life. I wanted my kids to see that even when things are tough, you don’t give up.”

That determination paid off. Maye returned to modeling in her 60s, defying industry norms and landing campaigns with major brands like CoverGirl and Target. Now, as the oldest Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover model in history, she’s inspiring a new generation to rethink what’s possible.

A New Era for Beauty and Confidence

The Belize photoshoot is more than just a fashion moment—it’s a cultural milestone. Posing confidently in a Maygel Coronel swimsuit, Maye Musk embodies the message that self-assurance and vitality don’t fade with age.

“I hope women see this and realize they can be adventurous, at any age,” Maye said. “You don’t have to slow down or hide away. You can keep growing, keep dreaming, and keep surprising yourself.”

Her message has resonated far beyond the fashion world. Social media lit up with praise after the cover reveal, with fans and celebrities alike celebrating Maye’s fearless spirit. “She’s proof that it’s never too late to shine,” wrote one Twitter user. “Maye Musk is my new role model.”

Family Pride—and Global Impact

While Maye Musk’s children are famously private about their family life, it’s clear that her achievements have made them proud. Elon Musk has often cited his mother’s work ethic and courage as foundational to his own drive.

In interviews, Maye has spoken about the importance of supporting her children’s ambitions—even when their ideas seemed outlandish. “I always encouraged them to pursue their passions, no matter what anyone else thought,” she said. “That’s what I hope every parent will do.”

But Maye’s influence reaches far beyond her family. As a dietitian, author, and advocate for women’s empowerment, she’s spent decades helping others build confidence and resilience. Her story is a masterclass in reinvention—a reminder that setbacks are just stepping stones to something greater.

Redefining What’s Possible

For Sports Illustrated, Maye Musk’s cover is more than a headline—it’s a statement about changing the narrative around age, beauty, and ambition. Editor-in-Chief MJ Day said, “Maye is a testament to the power of never giving up, and to the idea that you are never too old to make your dreams a reality.”

Maye herself puts it simply: “I’m just getting started. Life is full of surprises, and I’m excited for whatever comes next.”

The Takeaway: Why Maye Musk’s Story Matters

In a world obsessed with youth and perfection, Maye Musk’s journey is a breath of fresh air. She’s faced hardship, raised a family against the odds, and built a career that’s defied every expectation. Now, at 77, she’s proving that real beauty is about courage, authenticity, and the willingness to keep evolving.

Her Sports Illustrated cover isn’t just a fashion moment—it’s an invitation to dream bigger, live bolder, and never let age define what’s possible.