Former LSU gymnastics star Olivia Dunne is embracing the holiday season with a renewed sense of joy, and her relationship with baseball phenom Paul Skenes is at the very heart of it. Stepping away from competitive gymnastics has allowed Dunne to build a quieter, more personal life, and this year's Christmas celebrations are a direct reflection of that new chapter, deeply rooted in her Louisiana heritage and her bond with Skenes.
A Holiday Season of Meaning and Personal Touches
For Olivia Dunne, this Christmas carries a special significance. Her festive plans are a warm and personal blend of her identity, featuring nods to LSU with its iconic colors and even playful, personalized ornaments that symbolize her growing connection with Paul Skenes. This shift comes after she stepped back from gymnastics, a move that she says has given her the precious time to fully support Skenes at his Pittsburgh Pirates games and to savor the simple, quiet moments in their relationship.
Her connection to LSU remains incredibly strong. She is frequently seen in Tigers gear, attends games, and actively engages with the community that was pivotal during the early stages of her career. This holiday season, she is seamlessly merging her past at the university with her present life alongside Skenes, creating a celebration that is authentically theirs.
Paul Skenes' Stellar Year and Off-Field Life
While Dunne crafts a cozy holiday, Paul Skenes is concluding a truly spectacular year in his professional baseball career. The Pittsburgh Pirates ace was unanimously voted the 2025 NL Cy Young Award winner after a dominant season that saw him achieve a stunning 1.97 ERA, record 216 strikeouts, and allow only 11 home runs.
The couple recently took a break from their schedules to travel to Hawaii for the wedding of Skenes' teammate, Jared Jones. Dunne's social media snapshots from the tropical getaway offered fans a glimpse into their lives beyond the sports field. Amidst the celebrations, Skenes also addressed swirling rumors about his future with the Pirates, expressing his frustration on the 'Dan Patrick Show' and firmly stating that reports of him wanting to leave Pittsburgh were completely untrue.
Building a Life Together Beyond the Spotlight
Together, Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes are navigating the unique space between college fame, the intense pressure of professional sports, and the calm of their off-season life. Dunne's subtle online hints about their holiday plans have sparked excitement among her millions of followers, who are accustomed to seeing her celebrate Skenes' professional milestones while also cherishing their normal, everyday moments.
Her message is clear and heartfelt: this Christmas is not just a holiday; it is a representation of who they are now as a couple. It's a celebration built on loyalty, personal evolution, and the simple joy of being together, from sharing a cold beer after a long travel day to decorating their home with tokens of their shared history and bright future.
