LSU’s Livvy Dunne Aims for NCAA Championship Comeback Amid Injury

FORT WORTH, Texas — LSU gymnastics star Livvy Dunne is aiming to return to competition in the NCAA gymnastics championships this week after suffering an avulsion fracture in her knee last month. The LSU Tigers will face off against Michigan State, Utah, and UCLA in the semifinal round, which begins at 9 p.m. ET Thursday at the Dickies Arena.

Dunne expressed her determination to make a comeback, saying, “I’m doing everything I can to be able to compete. I’m not sure what the case will be, but I don’t think I’ll be able to tumble or do beam,” she added. “Bars is not out of the question.”

The Tigers enter the semifinals as defending champions, having posted impressive scores of over 198 in their first two rounds of the competition. LSU’s strong performance has positioned them to chase back-to-back national titles. “We had such a phenomenal season and we know what it takes to win,” said senior Aleah Finnegan.

LSU’s journey last year culminated in their first national title in women’s gymnastics, ending a decades-long pursuit. Finnegan, who has witnessed her sister’s path through the sport, reflected on the current team’s drive to repeat their success. “It’s just about proving to ourselves that we are who we say we are,” she said.

The field for the semifinals includes several powerhouse programs, including Florida, Oklahoma, and Utah. LSU gymnast Haleigh Bryant, a defending NCAA all-around champion, knows the intensity of the competition. “We’re really hungry and eager to make a statement once again,” she said.

LSU gymnastics has fostered a growing interest in women’s college gymnastics, attracting packed crowds and significant social media attention. The program is not only recognized for its athletic prowess but also for its star-studded roster, which includes Olympian Konnor McClain and many others who influence the sport’s popularity.

“There’s just so much more notoriety,” Finnegan noted. “Once people experience what a meet is like, they keep coming back.” As for Dunne, she has amassed an impressive following, boasting over 13 million social media followers and a valuation of $4.1 million. Her absence due to injury has been felt across the gymnastics community.

“It sucks because it’s the last part of our season, but I am getting better,” Dunne said. “We’re getting stronger day by day. That’s all I can ask for.” Her teammates echoed her sentiment, knowing the importance of their upcoming matches in maintaining momentum.

As preparations continue for Thursday’s competition, all eyes will be on the Tigers to see if Dunne can make her anticipated return to the mat. The semifinals will be broadcast on ESPN2 and available for streaming on various platforms.