When you hear Olivia Dunne’s name, what pops into your head? LSU, obviously, and her gymnastics skills. But let’s not forget she’s a total social media sensation, too. But here’s the twist: the first thing that comes to mind right now is probably Paul Skenes. The Pittsburgh Pirates ace and reigning NL Rookie of the Year! They’ve been dating for over 1.5 years, making them one of the most talked-about couples in sports. But imagine this: what if Paul had to arrange a date, not with Olivia, but for her and another lucky MLB fan? Well, it turns out an 11-year-old just hit the jackpot because he’s about to have a “date night” with Livvy! But why?

Have you heard about baseball’s “golden ticket”? A one-of-a-kind card featuring a patch worn on Paul Skenes’ sleeve during his major league debut, along with an autograph from the 2024 NL Rookie of the Year. The card made headlines in November last year when the Pittsburgh Pirates offered trade in hopes of securing it at PNC Park.

In exchange, the lucky holder of this card was promised some perks. But what? Well, like two season tickets behind home plate at PNC Park for the next 30 years, an exclusive meet-and-greet with Skenes, autographed jerseys, and even the chance to play a softball game with coaching from team alumni. They also offered access to batting practice, warm-ups with the team, and experiences at their spring training facility in Florida.

To make the offer even more exciting, Skenes’ girlfriend, Olivia Dunne, sweetened the deal. She added an exclusive opportunity for the cardholder to sit with her in her suite at a Pirates game. And it turns out, an 11-year-old from Los Angeles was the lucky winner, pulling the 1/1 card of Skenes, Topps announced on Tuesday. Imagine pulling a card like that—it’s like winning the jackpot! But what stood out wasn’t just the tickets or the card. It was seeing Olivia there, all excited and showing support for his boyfriend. And this isn’t the first time Olivia’s been by Paul’s side!

Skenes’ Rookie success fuelled by Olivia Dunne’s support

Olivia Dunne showed her full support for Skenes during his Major League Baseball debut in 2024. The LSU gymnast sported her black, white, and yellow ensemble to show team support at her boyfriend’s PNC Park game on May 11. She put on a black Pirates bomber jacket with matching leggings while wearing a “Yinz” tank top that featured a button with Skenes’ portrait. Through her TikTok post, she displayed her fear by repeating the words “Boyfriend, I’m nervous” to her social media audience while watching her boyfriend pitch. Undoubtedly, Livvy’s support means the world to Skenes. And guess what?

During four innings, Skenes produced fastball pitches over 100 mph, which resulted in seven strikeouts against batters. The Pirates emerged victorious in the match 10-9 despite Skenes allowing three runs on six hits. Seeing her boyfriend pitch felt overwhelming for Livvy. “I can’t control. I don’t know how to throw a 100-mph fastball, but it’s hard to have no control.” But when he notched seven strikeouts in his debut match, it felt unforgettable. But is it just Livvy supporting him? Of course not!

On December 16, 2024, Olivia Dunne posted an adorable picture of her hugging Paul Skenes. Skenes traveled to the Gym 101 event at LSU to cheer for his girlfriend as she worked on her gymnastics routine. The snapshot shows them with smiles as Olivia puts her arms around him, yet he stays calm in his sweatshirt and baseball cap. She tagged her post “BIG LSU GYM FAN” to praise Skenes for his love and support. The couple began their relationship in 2023 when TikTok followers noticed Olivia wearing her boyfriend Paul Skenes’ baseball team jersey. Since then, Skenes has stood by her side at all events and celebrated his Rookie of the Year.