Livvy Dunne Bids an Emotional Farewell to Gymnastics, Closing a Dazzling Chapter

Livvy Dunne has officially taken her final bow from the gymnastics stage, and if you’re not already misty-eyed, her emotional farewell might do the trick.

After a lifetime of flips, leaps, and dazzling performances, Dunne’s gymnastics journey came to an end when LSU couldn’t clinch another national title this year. The 22-year-old had one more year of eligibility but, after starting this sport before she could even tie her own shoes, she’s decided it’s time to leave the mat behind.

Dunne marked the moment with a heartfelt video, watching a montage of her career from toddler tumbles to LSU triumphs. Her own narration underscored just how quickly those years passed: "Time flies when you’re having fun." She reflected on the highs and lows, making the USA national team, and representing her country. According to Dunne, every risk along the way was worth the reward. She called her five years at LSU an "incredible journey" and expressed gratitude for the memories and sisterhoods that will outlast the sport itself.

Her words landed with a punch of nostalgia: "Gymnastics, you have filled my heart and will always be a part of me. You shaped me into the person I am today, creating memories and sisterhoods that will last a lifetime beyond the sport. You were my first love… And yes, time did fly by. And I will cherish every memory for the rest of my life. Thank you for everything, gymnastics. You were so good to me."

Injuries, unfortunately, had their say in her finale, with Dunne suffering an avulsion fracture of her patella—pretty much the universe’s way of saying, "You deserve a break. Literally." She hadn’t competed since January 24 against Arkansas because of it.

Outside the gym, Dunne’s star power is just as strong. She’s dating Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, is one of the NCAA’s biggest NIL earners, and has millions of followers across social media. Not to mention, she helped LSU snag its first NCAA gymnastics title last year—definitely not your average college experience.

While LSU’s shot at a repeat ended, Utah made its fifth straight Final Four, joining UCLA, Oklahoma, and Missouri in the NCAA women’s gymnastics championship lineup. The competition remains fierce, but Dunne’s legacy is sealed in LSU gold and glitter.