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Olivia Dunne, a celebrated former gymnast from LSU and a rising social media sensation, recently shared the behind-the-scenes story of her memorable split during the Sports Illustrated Runway Show held in Miami earlier this year.
As a national champion and cover model for this year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, Dunne took a significant step by participating in her inaugural runway experience. In a candid appearance on the podcast ‘What’s Your Story? With Stephanie McMahon’, she opened up about how her newfound freedom from LSU gymnastics allowed her to embrace this unique opportunity.
During the standout event in May, Dunne showcased a striking black and white polka dot swimsuit, adorned with vibrant red bows that highlighted her athletic figure. The striking moment occurred as she approached the end of the runway, culminating in her iconic move of dropping into a split.
In her discussion with McMahon, Dunne acknowledged her initial nervousness about participating in the fashion show. She admitted that stepping onto a runway was a completely novel experience for her.
“I traveled to Miami with no expectations,” Dunne recalled. “I had never walked a runway before, apart from practicing in front of my mirror after watching the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show during my childhood. This was a completely new adventure.”
She continued sharing her experience, saying, “Upon arriving at the rehearsal just two hours before the show, I was informed that I would be opening the event. I had never witnessed anyone walk a runway in person, which added to my anxiety.”
Amidst her uncertainty, Dunne consulted friends and family, those she trusted would encourage her to embrace the chance.
“Opening the show in a Sports Illustrated T-shirt felt incredible and was genuinely a memorable moment,” she expressed. “After rehearsal, I discussed with my sister—and only those whose opinions I valued—whether I should perform a split. They unanimously supported the idea.”
“I approached the head of the show, MJ Day, and she encouraged me to simply enjoy the experience. She emphasized that this runway was more dynamic than traditional ones. I envisioned performing a split as a fun way to demonstrate my athleticism, something I hadn’t seen on a fashion runway before.”
Dunne went on to explain the philosophy behind her performance: “In a fashion show like Sports Illustrated, the audience craves personality, movement, and authenticity. It was about experiencing genuine joy in the moment, and that’s what made it so exciting. So, I put on some oil and went for it by dropping into a split. It turned out to be an exhilarating experience.”
Alongside Dunne on the runway were other notable models, including Lauren Chan, Salma Hayek, and Jordan Chiles, each contributing their unique flair to the show.
Since her tenure with the LSU Tigers, Dunne has gained immense popularity as a digital influencer. With over 8 million followers on TikTok and an additional 5.4 million on Instagram, she consistently engages her audience while showcasing her vibrant personality. During her final competitive season, she played a crucial role in leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2024, although her journey was marred by injury.
Following her time at LSU, Dunne has been actively supporting her boyfriend, Paul Skenes, as he makes strides in Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Inspiring Future Generations
Dunne’s swift rise in social media popularity and her recent achievements in the fashion industry illuminate the evolving landscape for young athletes and influencers. Her willingness to step beyond traditional athletic roles and into the fashion realm sets a powerful example for others.
With her recent experience on the runway, she has showcased that athletes are more than just competitors. They can embody creativity and self-expression in various domains, including fashion. Dunne’s intention to inspire her contemporaries and younger generations is palpable. Athletes can indeed carve their unique paths by exploring opportunities beyond their primary sports.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Olivia Dunne continues to navigate her post-collegiate journey, her engagement in various activities, from sports to fashion, highlights her multifaceted talent. Her impact is not restricted to gymnastic achievements but extends into realms that resonate with a broader audience.
In a world where athletes increasingly gain recognition as influencers, Dunne’s journey reflects the changing narrative surrounding sports and femininity. She helps to challenge stereotypes while encouraging others to embrace their passions, regardless of the confines of their sports.
Her story stands as a testament to resilience and the pursuit of dreams. As Dunne forges her own path in sports and beyond, she invites everyone to join her in celebrating the joy of ambition and self-expression.
