Olivia Dunne Claps Back at Critics Over Her Fifth Season at LSU
Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, the star gymnast and social media sensation, recently shut down a troll who criticized her decision to compete in her fifth season at Louisiana State University (LSU). The drama began when a commenter mocked her senior night celebration with the snide remark, “Don’t worry, you’ll be a senior for the next 10 years.” Dunne, who has amassed 8 million followers on TikTok, responded with a video addressing the criticism. In the nearly minute-long clip, she asked the critic, “Why do you care?” and proceeded to break down her reasoning.
Dunne explained that her fifth year was made possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which granted her an additional year of eligibility. She pointed out that this opportunity is available to all college athletes but emphasized that such criticism is disproportionately directed at female athletes. “I only see this comment on female athletes’ posts,” she said, questioning the double standard. She also called attention to male athletes, such as LSU’s starting quarterback, Garrett Nussmeier, who is returning for a fifth year without facing similar backlash.
Dunne Calls Out Double Standards in College Athletics
Dunne’s response highlighted the glaring double standards in college sports, where female athletes are often scrutinized for decisions that are widely accepted for their male counterparts. She noted that football and basketball players frequently red-shirt or take fifth years, yet their choices are met with little to no criticism. “The starting quarterback of LSU is coming back for a fifth year, and this comment is nowhere to be found on his account,” she said. Dunne also called out the hypocrisy of critics who claim she is being “greedy” for returning, explaining that she actually gave up her scholarship to make way for younger athletes.
“Why do you care what I’m doing with my life? Please stop,” she pleaded, addressing the unnecessary scrutiny. Her words struck a chord, resonating with many who see the unfair treatment of female athletes in comparison to their male peers. Dunne’s response not only defended her own decision but also shed light on broader issues of gender bias in sports.
A Triumphant Return to LSU
Dunne’s decision to return for her fifth season was motivated by her love for the sport and the success she experienced with the LSU gymnastics team. In an interview with The Post’s Jenna Lemoncelli, she shared that the team’s historic NCAA championship win in April 2024 played a significant role in her choice. “It was so exciting for not only our team but the whole university. And that’s a feeling that I want to feel again,” she said. Dunne also revealed that she rediscovered her passion for gymnastics last year, which solidified her desire to return.
The Lady Tigers, currently ranked No. 2 in the nation, honored Dunne and her fellow seniors during a recent meet against No. 10 Georgia. However, the celebration was bittersweet as Dunne announced on Instagram that she would not be able to compete due to a knee injury—a setback that broke her heart. Despite the challenges, Dunne remains a central figure in LSU’s gymnastics program and a beloved fan favorite.
Overcoming Adversity and Embracing New Opportunities
Dunne’s senior night was overshadowed by the news of her avulsion fracture, which kept her sidelined during the meet. In an emotional Instagram post, she expressed her disappointment, writing, “It absolutely breaks my heart to not get the opportunity to compete in the PMAC one last time.” Despite her injury, Dunne remains grateful for the unwavering support of LSU fans and is determined to continue making an impact, both on and off the field.
A Rising Star Beyond the Gym
Beyond her achievements in gymnastics, Dunne’s star continues to rise in the world of sports and entertainment. She has secured lucrative brand deals and even became a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, cementing her status as one of the most marketable college athletes today. Her NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) valuation is reportedly $4.1 million, according to On3 Sports. Off the field, Dunne is thriving in her personal life as well, as her romance with Pittsburgh Pirates rookie phenom Paul Skenes heats up. Together, they represent the intersection of sports, fame, and modern-day stardom.
In summary, Olivia Dunne’s fifth season at LSU has been marked by triumph, criticism, and resilience. While she continues to shine as an athlete and influencer, her ability to stand up for herself and challenge unfair scrutiny has only added to her enduring appeal. Whether she’s competing, inspiring her fans, or navigating the challenges of fame, Livvy Dunne remains a force to be reckoned with.
