NIL Star Olivia Dunne: Beyond Gymnastics, Embracing Brand-Building and Inspiring the Future

LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne's social media fame has brought her millions in NIL deals and a platform to inspire the next generation of female athletes.

Olivia Dunne, the LSU gymnast who has amassed a massive following on social media, has become a sought-after brand ambassador and a role model for aspiring female athletes.

Dunne's journey to social media stardom began in 2020 when she started sharing gymnastics videos on TikTok. As her content evolved, she began showcasing her life outside the gym, which resonated with her followers.

NIL Star Olivia Dunne: Beyond Gymnastics, Embracing Brand-Building and Inspiring the Future

Her popularity has led to lucrative name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals with companies like Raising Cane's, American Eagle, Nautica, and Microsoft. In July, Dunne announced that she would return to college for a fifth season, signifying that her brand extends beyond the NCAA.

Dunne is acutely aware of the potential of her platform. She has featured in Sports Illustrated, which she sees as a stepping stone for her post-college career. She also established the Livvy Fund to guide female student-athletes at LSU in securing NIL deals.

NIL Star Olivia Dunne: Beyond Gymnastics, Embracing Brand-Building and Inspiring the Future

"Girls don’t know where to start," Dunne said. "It’s important to capitalize on your NIL while you’re in college if you’re a female because there’s not a lot of professional leagues after college for most women’s sports."

Dunne's influence is not limited to NIL. She is featured in Prime Video's "The Money Game," a docuseries that explores the NIL era for LSU athletes. The series showcases the less glamorous side of Dunne's life, contrasting with her polished social media presence.

NIL Star Olivia Dunne: Beyond Gymnastics, Embracing Brand-Building and Inspiring the Future

"I feel like social media really can be glamorized and it can make your life look really glamorous, when it’s not like that at all times," Dunne said. "That was raw emotion. I think that’s what viewers want to see."

Dunne's ambition knows no bounds. She is constantly striving for more, with an unwavering optimism about the future. "We have the mindset where you just never settle," she said. "We just want what’s next."

With over 5 million Instagram followers and 8.1 million TikTok followers, Dunne's brand is undoubtedly strong. She is dating Pittsburgh Pirates rookie pitcher Paul Skenes, adding another layer to her public persona.

Olivia Dunne's rise to fame is a testament to her talent, determination, and ability to connect with her audience. As she continues to navigate the complexities of social media, NIL, and her athletic career, she remains a beacon of inspiration for countless aspiring female athletes.