Livvy Dunne Defends Fifth Year at LSU Against TikTok Trolls

Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, a prominent figure in NCAA gymnastics, confronted a social media troll who mocked her decision to return for a fifth year at Louisiana State University. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by female athletes in particular, as well as the cultural perceptions surrounding college athletics.

Dunne, who enrolled at LSU in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, received an additional year of eligibility due to the NCAA’s policy changes that aimed to accommodate athletes impacted by the health crisis. The decision to return has sparked diverse reactions, particularly on platforms like TikTok.

A Controversial Comment Sparks a Response

During a recent senior night celebration for the Tigers, a comment surfaced, suggesting Dunne would be a senior for the next decade. This remark quickly drew her attention. In response, she shared a video on TikTok, tearing down the comment and addressing the broader implications it conveys.

In her video, Dunne stated, “I really don’t understand what’s so hard to get. I came to college in 2020, got granted a fifth year because of COVID, and I came back for the fifth year. I only ever see this comment on female athletes’ posts. Why do you care if I come back for a fifth year and have another year of eligibility?” Her straightforward approach resonated, as she pointed out the double standards that often plague discussions around female athletes.

Unpacking Gender Bias in Athletic Fields

Dunne’s criticism of the comment highlights an important issue within collegiate sports—the disparity in how male and female athletes receive public scrutiny. The response she provided referenced her male counterparts, such as LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who is also entering a fifth year after a redshirt freshman season.

She remarked, “Football and basketball players redshirt and take fifth years all the time. The starting quarterback of LSU football is coming back for a fifth year. This comment is nowhere to be found on his account.” This statement underscores the tendency to target female athletes with negative commentary about their decisions and accomplishments.

Beyond the Trolls: The Reality of Student-Athletes

Dunne further explained that athletes often face unique challenges, including injuries and the pressure to perform at a high level. In her case, she recently had to withdraw from the senior night competition due to an avulsion fracture of her patella. She took to social media to express her disappointment: “Hi friends! Unfortunately, I’ve been dealing with an avulsion fracture of my patella and will not be able to compete on senior night. It absolutely breaks my heart to not get the opportunity to compete in the PMAC one last time. Tiger fans, you’ve been so good to me! Thank you for the endless support and as always, Geaux Tigers! – Liv.”

This admission offers a glimpse into the physical challenges that collegiate athletes manage, often compounded by the pressures of social media fame.

The Impact of Social Media on Young Athletes

As one of the top earners in Name, Image, and Likeness deals, Dunne has successfully navigated the complexities of social media while maintaining her athletic commitments. Estimates suggest her valuation now stands at around $4.1 million, making her the leading female athlete in terms of NIL earnings.

Moreover, she has taken strides to support her fellow athletes through initiatives such as “The Livvy Fund,” created in cooperation with LSU’s official NIL collective. This fund aims to empower more female athletes by helping them secure their own NIL opportunities and raise awareness about the significance of funding in women’s collegiate sports.

A Legacy of Achievement

Dunne’s performance record speaks volumes about her dedication to the sport of gymnastics. As a 2024 WCGA All-American, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in her craft. Competing in nine meets this season, she showcased her skills particularly in the bars and floor events. Dunne’s highest scores include a career-best 9.900 on the floor during the Podium Challenge and a season-best 9.875 on the bars.

As LSU continues to maintain its competitive edge, ranked No. 2 nationally, the importance of athletes like Dunne cannot be understated. They not only excel in their field but also face a disproportionately high level of scrutiny while advocating for greater equity in sports.

The Ongoing Conversation

Livvy Dunne’s recent experiences illustrate the complexities of being a young female athlete in the digital age. Her ability to articulate the challenges she encounters serves as an example for others in similar positions. The conversation surrounding her decision to extend her eligibility highlights the necessity for understanding and respect for athletes’ choices, free from prejudice.

In a landscape where athletes are often reduced to their social media personas, Dunne’s commitment to supporting other female athletes marks a more significant legacy. As more voices join the call for equity and understanding, the message remains clear—female athletes deserve recognition and respect for their contributions and choices, regardless of societal expectations.