In what may be a heartbreaking end to an iconic collegiate gymnastics career, LSU star Olivia Dunne announced through her Instagram story that she will miss her final home meet on Thursday. The fifth-year senior revealed that she has been battling an avulsion fracture of her patella, dashing her hopes of competing one last time in front of Tiger fans at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center (PMAC).
Olivia Dunne announced on her Instagram Thursday night that she is dealing with an avulsion fracture of her patella and will not compete on senior night.@LSUgym pic.twitter.com/PWhjGJpSiA
— 104.5 ESPN (@1045espn) March 7, 2025
More About Livvy's Sudden Setback
Livvy Dunne, 22, has not competed since January 24, with LSU initially remaining tight-lipped about the severity of her injury. Now, her story explains she's struggling to recover from a knee injury where a tendon or ligament tears off a piece of the kneecap bone, often requiring rest, immobilization, and surgery.
"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! "Olivia Dunne
An Uncertain Road Ahead
The injury couldn't have come at a worse time. As No. 2-ranked LSU prepares for its final home meet against No. 10 Georgia, Livvy's absence leaves a noticeable gap in the lineup. While she remains hopeful for a possible return in the upcoming SEC and NCAA Championships, the path to recovery remains uncertain.
An avulsion fracture occurs when a fragment of the kneecap detaches due to excessive strain on the quadriceps tendon or patellar ligament. Hence, a painful injury like this is something that could spell the end of her NCAA career.
The Future: On and Off the Mat
Even as LSU moves forward without her in the competition, Dunne has kept busy. Recently, she served as the Grand Marshal of the Endymion Parade at Mardi Gras and continues to engage with her millions of fans through brand partnerships and content creation.
Her accolades on the mats include being named a WCGA Academic All-American and competing in 11 national and one international gymnastics event. Now whether or not she competes again, her impact on LSU gymnastics and the NCAA's NIL rules success books will be felt for years to come.