Olivia Dunne reveals she is staying at LSU for a fifth year in emotional Instagram post

Olivia Dunne confirmed she is staying at LSU for a fifth year of eligibility in an emotional Instagram post Monday. 

The gymnast and social media sensation won a national title with the Tigers in April but had remained tight-lipped on her collegiate future as her star power grew this summer. 

But Dunne finally answered fans' questions as she announced her decision to return for her fifth and final year in a video shared to social media. 

'These past four years have changed my life. There is something about putting on a purple and gold leotard,' Dunne said as she read a letter addressed to LSU fans. 

'[...] And no matter how many opportunities come my way off the mat, there's just something about LSU. And that's why I'm here to say, I'm not done yet.

'Here's to year 5, baby.'

Dunne, like many college athletes, was granted an extra year of eligibility due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has now delayed the end of her time on the balance beam until April 2025. 

However, she didn't have to return for the extra year, given her already impressive portfolio of brand endorsement deals. 

Dunne has amassed 5.3 million followers on Instagram and 8 million on TikTok, which has opened the tour to countless opportunities. 

Her explosive popularity online has helped her earn an estimated $3.5m annually through NIL deals and also score covers on Elle and Sports Illustrated.

She recently starred in an advertisement alongside Travis Kelce, jokingly teaching the NFL star some of her gymnastic tricks. 

Yet the NCAA's new NIL deals ensure a safety net of income for Dunne, who can continue to compete at a collegiate level while pocketing large sums rather than braving going out on her own. 

During the offseason, Dunne has been enjoying her summer as she contemplated her future. 

The influencer has supported her MLB boyfriend Paul Skenes at many of his games after the pitcher was called up to the majors by the Pittsburgh Pirates. 

She made her second Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition in May as well as attending Michael Rubin's infamous Fourth of July White Party last week, alongside Joe Burrow, Odell Beckham Jr. and Tom Brady.  

Shortly after LSU brought home its first national title in gymnastics in thrilling fashion in Forth Worth, Texas, Dunne hinted she may not return to Baton Rouge next season. 

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

'You know what, it is still feeling just unreal,' Dunne shared. '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.' 

Dunne was one of four seniors on the Tiger's 2023-24 roster, alongside Elena Arenas, Haleigh Bryant and Chase

Bryant, the 2024 NCAA All-Around Champion, and Brock both already announced they will return to the Tigers for their final year of eligibility in 2025.

However, Arenas retired from gymnastics announcing the news in a June 27 Instagram post after being limited throughout the last season with back injury.