Olivia Dunne finds performing in front of crowds easy compared to the nerves she feels watching her boyfriend, Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, on the mound. In a recent tête-à-tête with the New York Post, the LSU gymnast revealed that she feels more nervous when her boyfriend pitches than when she competes herself. Dunne said, “I get more nervous watching Paul because it’s just different when you’re not doing it and you’re not in control.” But she trusts Skenes’ abilities and turns her nerves into excitement for his performances. Paul Skenes playing at the major league bullpen is one that causes Olivia Dunne to be in two mind – euphoria and anxious jitters in equal doses.

In his journey to becoming one of the most revered baseball players, the 22-year-old is receiving unwavering support from his girlfriend Oliviaa Dunne. Despite Dunne contemplating returning to university for a fifth year, she dedicates much of her time to supporting Skenes as he aces it in the major leagues, despite the nerves. Throughout their journey, the couple has consistently hyped each other’s achievements, and this time was no different. It involved a catch as well wherein the rivals doffed their hat to Skenes.

Professional frenemies ease Olivia Dunne’s anxieties

Recently on her Instagram story, Olivia Dunne expressed her appreciation for her man Paul Skenes. She posted a video of Skenes receiving a standing ovation from the spectators and the rival team as he exited the baseball pitch, accompanied by a 🫶 emoji. This happened during the Pittsburgh Pirates’ match against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. After pitching 6 ⅓ scoreless innings and striking out 8 batters, Skenes was withdrawn from the game. When he left the mound in the seventh inning, the St. Louis crowd stood and cheered as if they were in Pittsburgh, honoring the Pirates pitcher for another outstanding performance. It just goes to show that baseball encompasses all boundaries. This stood out for Dunne as well. As he returned to the bleachers, Cardinal fans applauded Skenes’ efforts. With sportsmanship spirit and camaraderie alike, this is what it means to be a true fan.

Olivia Dunne, as usual, was cheering her boyfriend on. She had previously mentioned how she often becomes nervous watching Skenes play, saying, “It’s way harder to be the person in the stands watching because I’m not in control.” However, she does not have much to worry about as Paul Skenes is truly riding an upward curve. Heading into the game, he had a 3.00 ERA through five years. It tallied to a total of 38 strikeouts. He also demonstrated the ability to reach high velocities, with 60 pitches having recorded 100 miles per hour.

When he was called up, the Pirates were struggling with a 17-21 record and now they have increased that to 32-34. The Pirates secured a narrow victory with 2-1.The Pirates have two more games in St. Louis for Skenes to continue living up to his $9.2M signing bonus. Olivia Dunne nervously cheers on her boyfriend, Paul Skenes,and this isn’t the first instance she’s come in clutch for him.

Olivia Dunne’s consistent support for Paul Skenes over time

Since the early days of their relationship, Olivia Dunne has been a pillar of support for her partner, standing by him through every triumph and challenge. Her consistent support, from nervous cheers at games to celebrating his victories, has been a steady presence in their journey. Paul Skenes was the first overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. He has dominated the minor league level so far in the season. He transitioned to the MLB after two great seasons at the Air Force. Skenes was both an excellent pitcher and position player. He then moved to LSU in his junior year, where he likely met Dunne.

Additionally, Dunne was also present to cheer for Skenes during his debut match against the Chicago Cubs donning Pirates gear and a badge with his face on it. She recalled the match saying, “I cried. I was just so proud of him and I know how hard he worked for that very moment and the work that he puts in every day.” In just six games for the major league, Skenes earned a record of 3-0 with a 2.43 ERA and 46 strikeouts. His fastballs have also consistently clocked at about 100+ mph. During the June 5th match against the LA Dodgers where the Pirates won 10-6, Dunne posted a story on Instagram of herself wearing a Pirates hat. Dunne had to schedule a 10 hour flight to be present there after which she quickly had to fly to New York and Florida for SI’s launch parties.

She shared glimpses from the particularly good match for Skenes as he struck out Betts and Ohtani in the first at-bat at PNC Park in Pittsburgh. Ohtani was Skenes’ idol growing up. When a dan took a jibe at Skenes saying “Ohtani went yard next at bat”, Livvy Dunne silenced them with a stern, “Shhhhh.” She even made multiple TikToks from the match captioned, “You’re doing amazing sweetie” and, “POV: You’re in your WAG era” displaying her continued support for him. Regarding her support, Skenes said, “It’s been great. She’s helped me in a lot of ways in terms of managing all the hype, I guess, if you will, and how to manage everything that goes around being a pro athlete because she’s kinda lived it. So, it’s been great.” As Paul Skenes continues on his way to be the best, Livvy Dunne is sure to be on his side.