Livvy Dunne Shines as Cover Star of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition

Livvy Dunne Shines as Cover Star of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition

Olivia Dunne, a prominent figure in the world of gymnastics and social media, celebrated a significant milestone on Tuesday. The 22-year-old made her debut as a cover model for the highly anticipated 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition.

Excitement radiated from Dunne’s social media updates as she expressed her joy. In a post on X, she proclaimed, “Woke up a 2025 Sports Illustrated cover model!” This announcement came with an image showcasing her stunning cover.

The captivating cover features Dunne wearing an eye-catching animal-print bikini by Reina Olga. The photoshoot took place in the scenic backdrop of Bermuda, enhancing the allure of the cover.

Other Notable Cover Models

Dunne is not the only star gracing the cover this year. Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, actress Salma Hayek, and entrepreneur Lauren Chan also have their own covers, highlighting the diversity of talent included in this edition.

In a spirited moment, Dunne also shared the cover on her Instagram story, proudly declaring, “I’m a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover girl!” This social media exposure further solidified her status as a rising star in both sports and entertainment.

Involvement with Sports in New York

This week, Dunne joined fellow swimsuit models to promote the new edition in New York, where they had the chance to engage with fans and media. One notable event occurred at Citi Field, where the New York Mets faced the Pittsburgh Pirates. Dunne’s boyfriend, Paul Skenes, a promising pitcher for the Pirates, took the mound that night.

During the game, Skenes pitched six innings, allowing one earned run. Although the Pirates ultimately lost 4-3 to the Mets, Dunne was there to support her partner, further intertwining her life with both athletics and public appearances.

Before the game commenced, several swimsuit models, including Camille Kostek, Ellie Thumann, and Xandra Pohl, participated in throwing ceremonial first pitches. Notably, Dunne chose to sit this one out, a decision that surprised some fans.

A New Chapter After Gymnastics

Dunne’s recent cover shoot comes on the heels of her retirement from competitive gymnastics. She concluded her tenure with the LSU Tigers, which was marked by anticipation and pressure as the team could not replicate last year’s national championship win.

Reflecting on her gymnastics career, Dunne shared a poignant montage on her social media accounts, capturing her journey from toddlerhood in leotards to becoming a national champion. “Time flies when you’re having fun,” Dunne reminisced. “The past 20 years in this sport have felt like a whirlwind of joy and challenges. Every moment has shaped who I am today.

Memories and Gratitude

In her heartfelt post, Dunne expressed gratitude for the relationships and experiences gained throughout her athletic career. She stated, “Gymnastics filled my heart and will always be a part of me. You shaped me into the person I am today, creating memories and sisterhoods that will last a lifetime beyond the sport. You were my first love.”

These reflections showcase not just her achievements but also the emotional resonance of her experiences in gymnastics. Dunne’s journey illustrates the impact of sports on personal growth and identity, and her transition from athlete to public figure highlights the versatility and opportunities that arise from such a career.

The Future Ahead

As Dunne embarks on this new chapter as a Sports Illustrated cover model, fans and followers look forward to what lies ahead. Her ability to navigate between the worlds of sports and modeling has garnered attention and admiration, indicating a promising future.

With her social media following and public presence continuing to grow, it is clear that Livvy Dunne is not just a former gymnast but a multifaceted figure poised to make significant waves in the entertainment industry.