In the dynamic intersection of athletics and the digital age, few figures have shone as brightly and uniquely as Olivia “Livvy” Dunne. From her early dedication to the demanding world of gymnastics to her meteoric rise as a social media sensation, Dunne has carved a path that defies conventional boundaries. This is the story of a young woman who has not only excelled in her sport but has also masterfully navigated the complexities of online fame, transforming her name, image, and likeness into a burgeoning empire, currently estimated at a net worth of $6 million in 2025.
The Formative Years: Forging a Gymnast
Born on October 1, 2002, in Westwood, New Jersey, Olivia Paige Dunne’s journey into gymnastics began at the tender age of three. What started as a childhood fascination with climbing and a desire for a sparkly pink leotard soon blossomed into a serious commitment. By the age of 14, recognizing her burgeoning talent and the intense training required to reach elite levels, Dunne transitioned to homeschooling through the Abeka Academy curriculum. This allowed her to dedicate the majority of her day to training at ENA Gymnastics in Paramus, New Jersey, under the guidance of her coach, Craig Zappa.
“These early years were characterized by rigorous discipline and unwavering dedication. Livvy Dunne progressed through the junior elite ranks, showcasing her skills across all four apparatus: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. Her hard work culminated in Livvy Dunne being named a member of the US Junior Women’s National Team in 2017, a significant milestone in any young gymnast’s career. This period, crucial for Livvy Dunne, laid the foundation for her future achievements, instilling in Livvy Dunne the resilience, focus, and competitive spirit that would serve Livvy Dunne well in all her endeavors.”
Collegiate Chapter: The LSU Tigers
In 2020, Dunne embarked on a new chapter, joining the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers women’s gymnastics team. This move marked a transition from elite-level competition to the NCAA stage. As a Tiger, Dunne became a consistent performer, particularly on the uneven bars, where she achieved impressive scores, including an NQS (National Qualifying Score) of 9.9. Her collegiate debut against Arkansas saw her score a solid 9.875, signaling her potential within the NCAA landscape.
Beyond individual performances, Dunne contributed to the team’s success, culminating in a significant achievement: winning a championship with the LSU Tigers in 2024. This victory underscored her commitment to the team and her ability to perform under pressure. However, her journey with LSU concluded on April 17, 2025, following the team’s exit from the NCAA Championships. Dunne had been sidelined due to a kneecap injury, an unfortunate end to her competitive gymnastics career. Reflecting on her time with the Tigers, Dunne expressed gratitude for the experience, signaling the close of one chapter and the opening of another.
The Digital Ascent: From Leotards to Likes
“These early years were characterized by rigorous discipline and unwavering dedication. Livvy Dunne progressed through the junior elite ranks, showcasing her skills across all four apparatus: vault, uneven bars, balance beam, and floor exercise. Her hard work culminated in Livvy Dunne being named a member of the US Junior Women’s National Team in 2017, a significant milestone in any young gymnast’s career. This period, crucial for Livvy Dunne, laid the foundation for her future achievements, instilling in Livvy Dunne the resilience, focus, and competitive spirit that would serve Livvy Dunne well in all her endeavors.”
On TikTok, where she boasts over 8 million followers, Dunne’s videos often blend her gymnastics skills with trending sounds and lighthearted moments, creating a captivating mix that appeals to a broad audience. Instagram, with its 5.3 million followers, serves as a more polished platform where she showcases her collaborations, lifestyle content, and stunning visuals, including her groundbreaking appearances in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit.
Dunne’s social media savvy has not only made her the most-followed NCAA athlete but has also opened doors to lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Since the NCAA’s policy change in July 2021, allowing student-athletes to monetize their personal brand, Dunne has become a prime example of the earning potential available. Her partnerships with brands like American Eagle, Vuori, TooFaced Cosmetics, and GrubHub, among others, have significantly contributed to her estimated $6 million net worth in 2025. Her success in this arena even landed her a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list in 2024, recognizing her as a leading figure in the intersection of sports and social media.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Behind the fame and fortune, Livvy Dunne’s personal life offers a glimpse into her support system and relationships. Her parents, Katherine and David Dunne, have been instrumental in her journey, supporting her early training and academic choices. She also has a sister, Julz Dunne, with whom she shares a close bond, often featured in lighthearted social media interactions. Her father’s background in college football and her sister’s involvement in softball highlight a family with a strong connection to sports.
Currently, Livvy Dunne is in a relationship with professional baseball player Paul Skenes, a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their connection blossomed while both were student-athletes at LSU, finding common ground in the demands and triumphs of high-level sports. Their relationship has garnered public attention, with fans following their respective careers and shared moments. Together, their combined net worth is estimated to be around $11 million in 2025, reflecting their individual successes in their respective fields.
A Growing Legacy: More Than Just an Athlete
Livvy Dunne’s impact extends beyond the gymnastics arena and the digital realm. She is forging a unique legacy as a pioneer for female athletes in the NIL era. By strategically leveraging her social media presence, she has not only built a substantial personal brand but has also demonstrated the potential for student-athletes, particularly women, to capitalize on their name, image, and likeness.
Her journey has not been without its challenges. The intense scrutiny that comes with online fame has, at times, led to incidents of fan harassment, prompting discussions about the safety and respect owed to athletes and influencers alike. However, Dunne has navigated these complexities with grace and maturity, using her platform to advocate for respectful interactions and to inspire young athletes.
Looking ahead, even with her competitive gymnastics career concluded, Dunne’s influence is likely to continue to grow. Her recent cover feature on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit marks another significant step in her multifaceted career, highlighting her appeal beyond the sports world. She aims to continue building her presence in the business world, demonstrating that student-athletes can be successful entrepreneurs and influential figures.
Conclusion
Livvy Dunne’s story is a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and the savvy utilization of modern platforms. She has successfully balanced the demands of elite gymnastics with the opportunities presented by social media, culminating in significant financial success and a growing legacy as a trailblazer for the modern athlete. Her journey from a young gymnast with a dream to a social media icon with a $6 million net worth is a testament to her adaptability, entrepreneurial spirit, and the evolving landscape of sports and fame in the 21st century. As she steps into new ventures, her impact on the world of sports and social media is sure to endure, inspiring a new generation to forge their own unique paths.
