What happens when one of college gymnastics’ biggest stars crosses paths with a rising MLB phenom? Sparks fly, of course! Olivia Dunne is a social media phenomenon and current collegiate gymnastics queen. On the other hand, Paul Skenes is the tall throwing master now starting his journey with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Indeed, their love story is a modern-day sports fairytale. They are enthralled by their romance, a wonderful fusion of athletic ability and undeniable appeal. Their story proves that sometimes, the most unexpected pitches lead to the sweetest home runs.

“Key gymnast Olivia ‘Livvy’ Dunne, a star of LSU’s 2024 national championship victory, has grown into a significant social media influencer with about 13 million followers. Paul Skenes, a top LSU pitcher, was the Pittsburgh Pirates’ first overall pick in the MLB Draft. He later earned All-Star recognition and Rookie of the Year honors. Both players had success at LSU and keep shining in their respective disciplines. Just like their sports journeys the two have been quite open about their relationship.

The ESPN show stopped at Baton Rouge and included a pre-recorded interview with an LSU gymnast. Dunne discussed how she and the former LSU pitcher met, chatting with Christine Williamson.

“I saw him in the dugout and I thought he was cute,” Dunne said. She admitted she never got to watch him pitch live due to scheduling conflicts. “I could never actually watch him pitch because he would pitch on Friday nights and that’s when we were competing, so I had no clue what he was capable of at the time. I saw him in the fall,” Dunne said. With the help of mutual friends, the two eventually connected. “I had friends introduce us and we started dating,” she added.

Their paths collided at Louisiana State University (LSU), where athletic brilliance thrives and, as luck would have it, a stage for their developing love. On the baseball field, Skenes—known for his blistering fastball—was a rising star. Meanwhile, Dunne dominated the mat with the elegance of a dancer and the strength of a warrior.

One wonders what the future holds as they negotiate the demands of their jobs and their relationship. Will their love narrative keep blossoming under close public view? And how will each of their particular achievements entwine their paths? Though only time will tell, one thing is certain: the world will observe, eager to see what chapters they pen next.

Olivia Dunne & Paul Skenes’ story of support & success

From the dugout to the mat, their support knows no bounds. Dunne and Paul Skenes have constantly supported one another since their time at LSU, making several noteworthy public appearances. Olivia attended Paul’s Opening Day, which started with the Pittsburgh Pirates in Miami in late March 2025.

Olympian Aly Raisman and DJ Xandra Pohl joined her to emphasize Paul Skene’s robust support network. Paul delivered a remarkable outing, throwing five 1/3 innings with seven strikeouts despite the Pirates’ meager 5-4 loss to the Marlins.

Before the MLB started in February 2025, the pair briefly visited Siesta Key, Florida. Dunne posted a humorous selfie and a candid picture of them enjoying the ocean on Instagram. Paul Skene earned a deserved vacation on this trip before the rigorous baseball schedule got back underway.

Olivia also participated as Grand Marshal in the Krewe of Endymion procession during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. She embraced the festive mood wholeheartedly, dressing elegantly and posting her experience on social media, playfully evoking the custom of bead earning. Her participation in cultural events like Mardi Gras shows her expanding impact outside of the gymnastics scene.

These appearances capture Olivia Dunne and Paul Skene’s ability to juggle their obligations and publicly and personally support one another’s activities. Their connection is still a great model of athletic teamwork and relentless support, whether at stadiums, social events, or leisure resorts.