Olivia Dunne’s Uncertain Gymnastics Future After Stellar LSU Career
Olivia Dunne, the 21-year-old gymnast who wrapped up her senior season with LSU, remains uncertain about her future in the sport. As part of LSU’s first NCAA national championship team in April, Dunne has been reflecting on her next steps.
Decision on Fifth-Year NCAA Eligibility
In a recent interview with the New York Post, Dunne discussed her potential for a fifth year of eligibility in the NCAA. “I do have eligibility for a fifth year, which I haven’t decided yet,” Dunne shared. “I’m thinking about it… But I do have eligibility [for another year at LSU].” She also clarified her stance on competing in the upcoming Paris Olympics, stating, “I don’t think I’m going to try for the Olympics or anything after, since I once competed for Team USA and I closed that chapter and went to LSU.”
Historic Win for LSU Gymnastics
LSU made history by winning their first NCAA title, scoring 198.225 to surpass California (197.850), Utah (197.800), and Florida (197.4375) at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth. “The national championship was obviously the end goal,” Dunne said. “That was the cherry on top of my senior year. It’s just so cool to be able to make history with my whole team.”
Teammates’ Decisions on Eligibility
Dunne was one of four seniors on the championship team, alongside Elena Arenas, Haleigh Bryant, and Chase Brock. Brock announced she will utilize her final year of eligibility, while Bryant, the 2024 NCAA All-Around Champion, confirmed her return shortly after the championship win. Arenas, however, decided to retire from gymnastics due to back injuries. “I would do 100 more years of gymnastics if my body was able,” Arenas expressed in a heartfelt post.
Olivia Dunne’s Achievements and Records
During her four years at LSU, Olivia Dunne accumulated numerous accolades, including the 2023 and 2022 SEC Academic Honor Roll, 2021 WCGA All-American, and the 2021 First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll. She holds a career-high score of 9.925 on bars and a 9.90 on floor.
Success Beyond Gymnastics
Beyond the gym, Dunne has achieved significant success on social media, amassing over 13 million followers on Instagram and TikTok. This popularity has made her a prominent figure in the NIL era, with an NIL valuation of $3.1 million. Her social media presence has also led to a modeling career, with appearances in Sports Illustrated and Elle.
Summer Plans and Personal Life
As Dunne contemplates her future, she has been busy working on her partnerships and supporting her boyfriend, Paul Skenes, during his rookie year with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| 2023 SEC Academic Honor Roll | 2023 |
| 2022 SEC Academic Honor Roll | 2022 |
| WCGA All-American | 2021 |
| First-Year SEC Academic Honor Roll | 2021 |
| Career-high score on bars (9.925) | 2021, 2022 |
| Career-high score on floor (9.90) | 2022 |
Olivia Dunne’s future with LSU gymnastics remains uncertain as she weighs her options for a potential fifth year, marking another pivotal chapter in her already illustrious career.
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