Olivia Dunne isn’t staying quiet about criticism surrounding her decision to return for a fifth year at LSU. The star gymnast, who took advantage of the extra year of NCAA eligibility granted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, recently fired back at a TikTok commenter who joked she would “be a senior for the next 10 years.”
Dunne, 22, addressed the remark in a TikTok video posted Tuesday, making it clear she doesn’t understand the backlash.
“I only ever see this comment on female athletes’ posts,” she pointed out, questioning why people seemed so concerned about her decision. “Like, why do you care?”
Olivia Dunne Calls Out Double Standards
Dunne compared her situation to that of male college athletes who redshirt or return for additional years. “The starting quarterback of LSU is coming back for a fifth year- this comment is nowhere to be found on his account,” she said, referencing Jayden Daniels.
She also dismissed claims that extending her college career was selfish. “I gave up my scholarship to somebody else so I can come back,” she clarified.
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While some fans supported Dunne’s stance, others argued male athletes have faced similar scrutiny. Commenters mocked players like Stetson Bennett, Bo Nix, and Armando Bacot for staying in college longer. In response, Dunne noted that Bennett was 24-25 when he returned, adding, “Good for him coming back and balling out tho lol.”
Dunne, sidelined by a recent patella injury, couldn’t compete on Senior Night but remains one of the most high-profile college athletes. Whether critics approve or not, she’s making the most of her NCAA career- on her terms.
Also Read: Everyone Is Praying For Olivia Dunne Following Heartbreaking Personal Announcement
