Livvy Dunne is making waves as she has been featured as one of the main stars on the cover of the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. At just 22 years old, the former LSU gymnastics champion joins notable personalities such as actress Salma Hayek Pinault, model Lauren Chan, and fellow gymnast Jordan Chiles in this prestigious publication.
Dunne, who previously made her SI Swim debut in 2023, embraced her sporty style by donning a backwards baseball cap, possibly as a tribute to her boyfriend, professional baseball player Paul Skenes. For the photoshoot, she opted for a bold asymmetrical zebra-print bikini while on the picturesque beaches of Bermuda, showcasing a trendy strapless design with striking cutouts and a dainty string belt.
Reflecting on her journey, Dunne expressed her initial disbelief upon receiving the call to model for SI Swim in 2023, which she described as the “best word” to encapsulate her feelings at the moment. “I was screaming and jumping around, and I called my mom immediately, and I think I cried,” she shared. She mentioned her aspiration to follow in the footsteps of her idol, Aly Raisman, a past SI Swim model, highlighting the importance of supporting women’s sports and leaving a lasting impact.
After concluding her competitive gymnastics career due to a fractured kneecap, Dunne shared her excitement about having more flexibility in her newfound schedule, which she found invigorating after dedicating years to being a competitive gymnast. Despite the challenges faced, including a bittersweet end to her gymnastics career, Dunne expressed her gratitude for the immense support from her fans through a heartfelt farewell video that resonated with many former gymnasts.
The 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue will be available on newsstands starting May 17. This marks a significant milestone for Dunne as she navigates her post-gymnastics life while continuing to inspire others through her achievements.
This article encapsulates Dunne’s journey, emphasizing positivity and empowerment in women’s sports, inspiring the next generation of female athletes to chase their dreams.