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LSU’s Livvy Dunne Unable to Compete Due to Injury

Olivia Dunne, the 22-year-old star gymnast from LSU, faced a disappointing setback as she was unable to attend her senior night due to an injury. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Dunne revealed that she has sustained an “avulsion fracture of my patella,” which prevented her from participating in the meet held on Friday.

“It absolutely breaks my heart not to get the opportunity to compete in the (Pete Maravich Assembly Center) one last time,” she expressed, conveying her disappointment to her followers.

Dunne has not competed since January 24, when she faced Arkansas, but there is hope for her potential return during the upcoming NCAA championships next month. Recovery from an avulsion fracture typically requires a period of at least three months, although in some cases, it could extend to six months or more depending on the severity of the injury.

The Cleveland Clinic describes an avulsion fracture as an occurrence where “a small piece of bone attached to a tendon or ligament gets pulled away from the main part of the bone,” illustrating the complexity and challenge associated with such injuries.

Friday’s meet marked the number two-ranked LSU’s final home event of the season, where they achieved a commanding victory over the tenth-ranked Georgia, scoring 198.575 to Georgia’s 197.175.

Following her recovery, Dunne has the opportunity to compete in the national regionals scheduled between April 2-6, culminating in the NCAA championships from April 17-19 in Fort Worth, Texas. Last year, LSU celebrated a victory in these championships, raising the stakes for their upcoming competitions.

Dunne, who chose to return for a fifth year at LSU, continues to make waves both as an athlete and a social media influencer, ranking among the top earners in NIL (name, image, likeness) agreements with millions of followers across various platforms.

In her personal life, Dunne is in a relationship with LSU alumnus and Cy Young contender Paul Skenes, who was recognized as MLB’s National League Rookie of the Year in 2024.

With her observed resilience and talent, fans and followers alike will be keenly watching Dunne’s recovery and potential return to the competition as she aims to finish her collegiate gymnastics career on a high note.

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