Days After Major Honor, Paul Skenes Reveals Frustrations Behind Olivia Dunne Relationship: “It’s Just Tough”

Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes are one of the biggest power couples in the sports world right now. Even with their insane schedules, they somehow make it work. Livvy’s out there killing it in gymnastics, and Paul’s on fire in MLB after being the No. 1 overall pick by the Pirates in the 2023 Draft. They both find time to support each other, with Livvy cheering on Paul from the sidelines while he’s pitching and Paul making sure to show up for Livvy in her gymnastics moments. But while their relationship looks perfect from the outside, it’s not always smooth sailing!

It’s been a huge week for Paul. He was named the National League Rookie of the Year, which is an outstanding honor, and it also means he’ll hit his big second contract a year earlier. Beyond that, his rise in MLB has got the sports card world buzzing. His Topps Now card featuring Olivia Dunne just dropped, and his Topps Chrome Autographed Superfractor 1/1 card got pulled, which is a huge deal. With all this attention, you’d think he’d be drowning in pressure, but he’s handling it like a pro. How is that?

How are Skenes and Livvy making long-distance work?

Paul Skenes has been making the most of his offseason, but it’s not exactly all relaxation and fun. In an interview with the MLB, when asked what he’s been up to during this time off, he said, “I took three weeks off at the beginning of the offseason. Took a mini vacation to Florida for a few days. It’s just tough because my girlfriend [LSU gymnast Livvy Dunne] is in school, and I’m trying to spend as much time with her as possible.

“A two-week trip to Italy or something like that? That’s not happening this offseason. People say, ‘Hey, do you want to do something?’ And I’m like, ‘We can do something, but we’ve got about 12 hours because I need to get back and lift in the morning.’ The biggest thing is getting my training in.” As is evident from Skenes’ revelation, balancing his commitment to baseball with his personal life has been tricky. And even though he’d love a longer break to spend time with Olivia, that’s just not in the cards this offseason.

Instead, Paul’s keeping his focus on training. For him, the off-season is more about getting fit and ready for next season rather than a time to relax. That means there is no chance to disengage fully from work. It’s a balance and it is evident that he is ready to work for it.

On the field, he has been lights out. Paul Skenes made a huge impact since his MLB debut on May 11 this year, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about rookies of the year. He closed his first season, having posted 11-3, a 1.96 Earned Run Average, and had the privilege of getting honored with the National League in the All-Star game.

Additionally, he was awarded Rookie of the Year and was also one of the three nominees for the NL Cy Young Award. However, having a relationship with a famous MLB  player has also influenced Olivia Dunne’s presence.

Olivia Dunne reveals what’s next in her relationship with Paul Skenes!

Ever since she began a relationship with Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates, her social media presence has grown significantly. When asked about her “WAG” status, she kept it simple, saying, “I’m excited for what’s to come.” She seems excited about what lies in their relationship as they look forward to closing the distance between them in the future.

Olivia and Paul crossed paths during his days at LSU and have been standing by each other’s side even though he’s now playing professionally in the major leagues. Her relationship with Paul has lit up her life, too. “My social media has changed a bit because my audience that follows me also loves Paul,” she said. “I have a lot of people come up to me and tell me how much they love Paul, and I’m like, ‘Me too!’” Paul’s successful MLB career has attracted a wave of followers to Olivia’s social media platform, who appreciate seeing her bond with Paul in addition to her gymnastics posts.

You see, it’s not about the fans for Olivia; it’s also about sharing the things that bring happiness. “I really enjoy posting about my life, and also I love supporting Paul and traveling with him,” she shared. As Olivia’s last season at LSU gets ever closer, there’s no doubt that Skenes will be there to support her every chance he gets. And the same goes for Livvy, as she’ll be supporting her beau as he gets ready for his second season in the MLB. Until then, they have the offseason to enjoy!