Full Breakdown
Navigating Long-Distance Love: Olivia Dunne and Paul Skenes
3/10/2026, 12:25:11 AM
Relationship Overview
Olivia Dunne, a former NCAA gymnast and popular content creator, and Paul Skenes, a pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates, have been navigating the complexities of a long-distance relationship since they began dating in 2023. Both individuals have demanding careers that often keep them apart, yet they have developed a strategy to maintain their connection.
Approach to Long-Distance Challenges
In a recent interview with *People*, Dunne emphasized the importance of being "super present" during their time together. She stated, “Honestly, I don’t think we have any rules. I just think being super present with one another while you’re together... is super important.” This sentiment reflects their understanding of each other's busy schedules, as Skenes often attends Dunne's events, and she makes an effort to watch him pitch whenever possible.
Dunne has been a consistent presence at Skenes's games, supporting him during significant events, including his victories in the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2024 and the Cy Young Award in 2025. Their mutual support extends to major events like the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where Dunne was seen cheering for Skenes as he pitched for Team USA.
Background of Their Relationship
The couple met while attending Louisiana State University (LSU), where Dunne was a member of the gymnastics team from 2020 to 2025. Skenes made his MLB debut in 2024. Initially, Dunne was unaware of Skenes's identity, describing him as a "tall, mysterious man" she would see around campus. Their relationship blossomed despite early misunderstandings, such as Skenes not following Dunne back on Instagram, which she humorously recounted in interviews.
Support and Understanding
Dunne and Skenes have cultivated a relationship built on understanding and flexibility. Dunne noted, “We both are so busy that we understand if one another can’t be there for everything.” This approach allows them to prioritize quality time together without imposing restrictions on each other's personal and professional lives. Dunne expressed her desire to visit Skenes during spring training, indicating her commitment to nurturing their bond.
Criticism & Opposition
While the couple has received significant support from fans, long-distance relationships often face skepticism regarding their sustainability. Critics may argue that the physical distance could strain their connection over time, especially given their demanding careers. However, Dunne and Skenes appear to counter this narrative with their proactive communication and shared experiences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Honestly, I don't think we have any rules. I just think being super present with one another while you're together, while you have that time together, is super important,” — Olivia Dunne
- “We both are so busy that we understand if one another can't be there for everything,” — Olivia Dunne
As Dunne and Skenes continue to balance their careers and relationship, their story serves as an example of how commitment and understanding can help couples navigate the challenges of long-distance love.
