In the world of collegiate athletics and social media stardom, Olivia “Livvy” Dunne and Paul Skenes have emerged as a power couple who balance their extraordinary achievements with refreshingly relatable charm. Dunne, an LSU gymnast and one of the most followed college athletes on social media, and Skenes, a standout pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, have cultivated a relationship that continues to captivate their fans.
Their story began in Baton Rouge, where Dunne’s social media fame was unmatched, while Skenes, a transfer from the Air Force Academy, was described as the “tall, mysterious man who never smiles.” Their connection might never have blossomed if not for Dunne’s curiosity, and a little help from mutual friends. A Morgan Wallen concert set the stage for the LSU gymnast to connect with Skenes, whose reserved demeanor and lack of enthusiasm for social media made him an enigma in Dunne’s world.
“I was like, who is this kid and why won’t he follow me back?” she said on GQ Sports. Eventually, Skenes mustered the courage to ask Dunne out for ice cream, reasoning that he needed “something in my hand while we’re talking.”
That lighthearted beginning marked the start of a relationship filled with fun, teasing, and mutual support. From Dunne scheduling frequent (and unnecessary) hair appointments to catch Skenes’ attention, to the couple’s playful interactions on TikTok, they’ve built a bond that’s as relatable as it is glamorous.
Their love and support is more than just social media
Their dynamic, however, extends far beyond social media antics. Dunne and Skenes are one another’s biggest supporters. In March 2025, Dunne attended Skenes’ Opening Day game with the Pittsburgh Pirates in Miami, where she cheered him on alongside Olympian Aly Raisman and DJ Xandra Pohl.
Despite the Pirates’ narrow 5-4 loss, Skenes delivered a strong performance, striking out seven batters in over five innings. On her end, even while recovering from a patella avulsion fracture, Dunne remains deeply involved with LSU gymnastics, supporting her team as they aim to defend their NCAA championship.
The couple also finds time to relax together. They recently took a February getaway to Siesta Key, Florida, sharing candid moments on Instagram that offered fans a glimpse of their lives off the field and mat. Whether it’s Dunne embracing her role as Grand Marshal at Mardi Gras or Skenes revealing his cooking skills in a playful TikTok video, their relationship is a blend of fun and authenticity.
What makes Dunne and Skenes so compelling isn’t just their individual accomplishments, Dunne’s dominance in gymnastics and social media, and Skenes’ record-breaking pitching career, but the genuine connection they share. As they juggle their demanding schedules with moments of levity and support, they’ve become a shining example of how young athletes can thrive both personally and professionally. Fans, enamored with their journey, continue to root for the couple as they navigate their ever-growing spotlight.
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