Olivia Dunne Was Asked About Returning To LSU For 5th Year

23/04/2024 02:03

LSU captured the program's first-ever national championship in gymnastics on Saturday. Shortly after this monumental achievement, Olivia Dunne faced questions about her future.

The senior can use a fifth year of eligibility provided to athletes because of the COVID-19 pandemic and return next year. Appearing on TODAY, Dunne demurred on making a final decision.

"It definitely makes me want to come back, but I haven't quite thought about it completely," Dunne said. "I've just been focused on the now and winning this national title, so I'll definitely start thinking about it."

Dunne did not compete at the national championships, but she watched her Tigers teammates make history with a nail-biting triumph. The social media star was still riding the high of LSU's victory.

"It is still feeling just unreal," Dunne said. "I'm still trying to get my voice back from cheering so loud. It was an unforgettable experience, and I'll probably be thinking about it for the rest of my life."

Junior Aleah Finnegan sealed the title by scoring a 9.95 to close LSU's day. Dunne got emotional watching her teammate's clutch performance.

"It was probably one of the best beam routines I've ever seen her do," Dunne said. "Tears filled my eyes. Tears filled Tigers' fans eyes, tears filled her eyes — it was amazing."

Although not at the forefront of LSU's championship run, Dunne's online presence catapulted her to vast popularity during her time at Baton Rouge. She graced last year's Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, and On3 estimates a massive NIL valuation of $3.7 million, more than any other female athlete.  

Dunne will likely remain widely followed regardless of her decision to stay or leave LSU.