ESPN The Magazine dropped its “Body Issue” on Wednesday — the company’s counter to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, essentially — and there was a familiar women’s soccer face in it and on one of the eight covers: Sydney Leroux.
Leroux bared all for ESPN’s annual clothes-free issue, which in previous years included U.S. teammates Hope Solo and Abby Wambach. Alex Morgan appeared in body paint in the 2012 SI Swimsuit Issue.
Why did Leroux do it? Leroux, in an interview with espnW, said she understands what it is like to be unhappy with your body, but now the 23-year-old appreciates who she is.
“I think a lot of females struggle with the way they look, and I wanted to show that everyone’s body is different. I think it’s a big deal to be an athlete and feel confident in your body and show it off. I’m not going to say I’ve never struggled with how I look, but I’ve reached a point in my life where I’m happy with who I am.”
Leroux currently leads the National Women’s Soccer League in goals with 10 for the Boston Breakers.