Alex Morgan on Her Body Paint Bikini Pics Breaking the Internet

Re-posting this 2012 “article” back to the top of the page as it’s burning up the page view numbers right now; in light of the Alex Morgan tea-sipping celebration “controversy” dominating the headlines in the later stages of the Women’s World Cup.

Enjoy!

Three female athletes will appear in Sports Illustrated‘s Swimsuit issue, which comes out next Tuesday, Feb. 14. The trio will be part of the popular “bodypaint” feature. One of the athletes featured is U.S. women’s soccer star Alex Morgan.

Yes, Alex Morgan literally wearing nothing, but a “painted on” bikini. I’m making you read the whole post to see this one.

And the internet is buzzing all over about it. The picture after the jump is a sneak peek of what’s to come in the issue. SI.com’s Hot Clicks touched base with Morgan to get her thoughts on the big event. (For more info, follow Swimsuit on Twitter and Facebook.)

SI.com: Did you have any reservations about doing the bodypaint?

Morgan: Initially I was a little nervous, but this opportunity doesn’t come everyday. I wanted to involve my family with my decision and it helped that they were very supportive. After the initial reaction of nerves, I was so excited to start shooting, and honored to be included with such an amazing group of athletes and models.

SI.com: What was more intimidating: posing in bodypaint or taking on Japan in the World Cup finals?

Morgan: I have been playing soccer my entire life. I know how to stay calm and not get too nervous for games. That’s why I would have to say posing in bodypaint was a little more intimidating. It was a completely new experience and definitely took some getting used to before I felt comfortable in bodypaint. I had to look in the mirror every five minutes to make sure I actually had a swimsuit on.