Kaylah Walton
Olivia Dunne recently celebrated her 22nd birthday, and social media was abuzz with compliments for the talented gymnast. As she embarks on her last competition year with the LSU Tigers, Dunne has become a prominent figure not only in gymnastics but also in the sphere of social media and NIL deals.
In a laid-back birthday celebration, Dunne shared moments online that included her pet dog as part of the event.
“Woke up a lil older #22,” Dunne noted in one of her posts, referencing a significant milestone for any Taylor Swift fan.
Her post was accompanied by the song “22 (Taylor’s Version),” a classic choice for anyone turning 22.
Capitalizing on NIL Opportunities
Since the introduction of NIL regulations in 2021, student-athletes like Dunne have begun to profit from their personal brand, and she has navigated this landscape exceptionally well.
Although college athletes have typically influenced local areas, the rise of social media has propelled some to nationwide fame, and Dunne exemplifies this phenomenon. With over 13 million social media followers and an estimated NIL valuation of $4 million, as per On3.com, she is creating a significant impact beyond gymnastics.
Her influence goes beyond social media; Dunne has also embraced modeling, being featured in Sports Illustrated. She is preparing for her fifth and final season with LSU, demonstrating that her impact transcends brand partnerships and online recognition.
As captain of the reigning NCAA Championship team, Dunne showcases her remarkable gymnastics skills while successfully managing her digital presence, standing out as one of the most significant collegiate athletes of her era.
