Olivia Dunne: Retirement or Return for a Fifth Year at LSU?

LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne and her teammates in purple leotards made history on April 20 by clinching the program’s first national championship. The Tigers defeated their arch-rival Florida Gators and the top-seeded gymnastics team, thanks to standout performances from Haleigh Bryant and Kiya Johnson. However, the spotlight now shifts to Dunne, who has been contemplating retirement.

The 21-year-old gymnast hinted at the end of her 18-year career earlier this year but has since remained undecided about returning for a fifth year at LSU. Despite holding one year of eligibility, Dunne’s off-the-mat success as the NCAA’s highest female NIL earner has opened up a world of opportunities beyond gymnastics.

With partnerships with major brands like Motorola, EA Sports, and American Eagle Outfitters, as well as her own venture, The Livvy Fund, Dunne’s future looks promising. Additionally, a recent partnership between The Livvy Fund and Accelerator Active Energy suggests that she will continue to be involved in gymnastics in some capacity.

Dunne’s performances this season, including a perfect 10 on Senior Night, indicate that she still has more to give in the sport. Despite injury setbacks and missing out on the NCAA Championships starting rotation, the possibility of Dunne returning for another year remains.

As the gymnastics world eagerly awaits Dunne’s decision, one thing is certain – whether she chooses to retire or continue competing, Olivia Dunne’s impact on and off the mats will be felt for years to come. Stay tuned to see if the LSU star will write another chapter in her already impressive career.