I’m reporting live, and here’s the latest buzz surrounding social media star Sydney Thomas, who has once again captured the internet’s attention. This time, it’s with a viral photo of her alongside the legendary Nick Saban. The 21-year-old model and University of Alabama student posed with the iconic former Crimson Tide coach at a celebrity golf event, sending fans into a frenzy, as reported by On3.
Sydney Thomas rose to fame after her appearance as a ring girl at the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight in November 2024, which quickly made her a hot topic across social media. Her recent revelation on the “Like A Farmer Podcast” that she had received a mysterious direct message from an unnamed SEC football coach only added fuel to the speculation fire.
“It was from another SEC football team coach and they just DM’d me, ‘Roll Tide,’” Thomas shared, but kept the sender’s identity under wraps. Naturally, the internet exploded with guesses—many humorously speculating that it could be Nick Saban, despite the coach’s minimal presence on social media.
Adding even more intrigue to the situation, Lane Kiffin, head coach of Ole Miss and known for his online antics, jumped into the conversation. “We have the answer. RTR,” he tweeted, sparking further speculation about his own involvement in the mystery. Given Kiffin’s prior role as Alabama’s offensive coordinator, his tweet only fueled the ongoing buzz. However, the true identity of the coach remains a mystery.
As for Thomas, the rising star from St. Louis, Missouri, she’s handling the increasing spotlight with grace and humor. After celebrating one million followers on TikTok following the Tyson-Paul fight, she’s continued to engage with her fans, keeping her audience entertained.
Although she enjoys the fame, Thomas has remained tight-lipped about other notable figures who’ve reached out to her. She’s focused on keeping things lighthearted and balancing her studies at Alabama with her blossoming career.
When asked about her dream job, Thomas mentioned working at a fight featuring Conor McGregor against either Jake or Logan Paul—a goal that seems more achievable than ever given her rising popularity.
Her recent post with Nick Saban featured a caption that read, “Out on the course today with the GOAT #rolltide,” solidifying her connection to Alabama’s football legacy. Whether it’s through cryptic DMs, viral photos, or ambitious dreams, Sydney Thomas continues to keep the spotlight firmly on her.
