BATON ROUGE, LOUSIANA: Olivia Dunne, emerging as the NCAA's highest-paid female athlete, enjoys a lucrative seven-figure income, marking a monumental shift in her career trajectory. Dunne's popularity has soared, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where she amasses an impressive combined following of over 11 million.
Dunne has achieved remarkable success in both sports and modeling. She has been recognized for her achievements and popularity, earning invitations to prestigious events like the 2023 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles. Moreover, she made her debut in the 2023 issue of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, which is a significant milestone in the modeling industry. Amidst the rising fame, Dunne recognized the importance of being cautious. With her newfound popularity, she made the decision to no longer attend classes in person, prioritizing her safety above all else.
'There were some scares in the past'
In an interview with Elle magazine, Dunne candidly revealed that there had been previous incidents that caused concern, prompting her to take extra precautions. As her daily schedule and whereabouts became sensitive information, she aimed to shield that aspect of her life from the public eye, focusing on maintaining a sense of privacy amidst her thriving career. "There were some scares in the past, and I just want to be as careful as possible. I don’t want people to know my daily schedule and where I am," she told the magazine.
During the Tigers' season opener against Utah, Dunne faced an overwhelming situation when a large crowd of enthusiastic male fans gathered around her, seeking photos and social media follows. This sudden surge of attention raised concerns about her safety and privacy. In response, LSU took immediate action and implemented new security measures to ensure her well-being during events. Despite her thriving career and financial achievements, she says she's doing well with the virtual classes.
'I know it’s coming to an end'
As Dunne approaches her senior year with the Tigers, she continues to make remarkable strides in her career. Having secured additional NIL deals, she has also made a mark in the modeling world as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model. Beyond her personal successes, she has shown a compassionate side by establishing the Livvy Fund, aimed at supporting female student-athletes at LSU.
In a recent interview with Elle.com, Dunne reflected on her journey with a mix of nostalgia and anticipation for the future. With her time as a college athlete coming to an end, she cherishes every last memory while eagerly embracing the possibilities that lie ahead. As her journey unfolds, Dunne's dedication to her passions and her desire to uplift others continue to shine brightly. "I know it’s coming to an end, so I’m trying to take in every single last memory I can, but I’m also excited to see what the future holds," she said.
