Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes: Blending Humor, Support, and Star Power Beyond the Arena
While many sports romances follow a familiar script, Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes bring something refreshingly different to the table. She’s a former gymnastics standout; he’s a rising baseball phenom. But what truly sets them apart is how their personalities collide in playful, unpredictable ways—like when Dunne turns media interviews into comedy gold.
Known for her authenticity and quick wit, Dunne continues to shine in the public eye—even after stepping away from gymnastics. During a recent chat with For The Win, she stole the spotlight with a hilarious moment. When asked if she could throw any pitch in baseball, she confidently said, “Yeah, a splinker. I taught him that in the offseason,” before breaking into laughter and admitting she was kidding. The hybrid “splinker”—part splitter, part sinker—became the punchline fans didn’t know they needed.
Her light-hearted jabs didn’t stop there. When asked if Skenes could ever pull off a gymnastics move, she cheekily replied, “I think Paul could be a good bar swinger because of how tall he is. His lines would be beautiful.” It was another moment that highlighted their connection—a mix of genuine admiration and fun-loving banter.
This dynamic between them is rare among sports couples. Rather than keeping everything private, Dunne and Skenes share honest glimpses into their relationship. Their bond is built on mutual support, humor, and a strong foundation in their respective sports.
Since her official retirement from gymnastics in April 2025—after helping LSU secure its first-ever collegiate national title—Dunne has confidently stepped into her next chapter. With over 8 million followers on TikTok, she’s still very much in the public eye, using her platform for more than just entertainment.
Dunne has become a strong advocate for women in sports, especially through her efforts with LSU’s Livvy Fund, which helps female college athletes secure NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Her goal? To expand these opportunities across other schools and help tackle the inequalities female athletes face when it comes to recognition and compensation.
But fame hasn’t been without its challenges. Dunne has openly discussed the darker aspects of celebrity, including experiences with airport harassment and stalking—raising important conversations about safety and respect for women in sports.
Despite no longer competing, Dunne still considers herself a gymnast at heart. She’s passionate about her next steps, which include advocacy, modeling, and media appearances. Through it all, her humor, resilience, and partnership with Skenes continue to define her growing legacy.
As she navigates life after gymnastics, Olivia Dunne is showing the world that being a modern sports star isn’t just about medals and records—it’s about using your voice, owning your story, and never losing your spark.