Fans were shocked on Sunday with an emotional tribute from Olivia Dunne revealing who she believes to be the real “GOAT” in her life.

Rather than a sports icon or celebrity, the former LSU gymnast paid tribute to her mother, Katherine Dunne, in a personal Instagram Story posted on Sunday.

The social media star shared a picture of herself hugging her mother next to a pool surrounded by lush greenery during golden hour. Dunne's caption was brief but emotional.

"Happy Mother’s Day to my GOAT! GOAT!🤍 I love you, Mommy!" she wrote while tagging her mother’s account.

Fans responded to the more intimate, softer side of the former NCAA gymnast, and the post quickly gained traction online. Olivia Dunne, who has built one of the largest followings in college athletics, often shares glimpses of her glamorous lifestyle, brand work, and travels.

The Mother's Day tribute came during a very big transition period in Dunne's life. She ended her gymnastics career earlier this year after LSU’s season at the NCAA Championships.

In five seasons with the Tigers, the 22-year-old became one of the most recognizable athletes in the history of college sports.

While at LSU, Dunne helped bring greater exposure to women’s gymnastics outside of the competition floor. Her huge online audience and endorsement deals made her one of the highest-paid female college athletes in the NIL era.

Dunne has stepped away from gymnastics but has maintained a public profile via fashion shoots, magazine covers, and social media. Fans online have also continued to pay attention to her relationship with Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes.

However, her latest post revealed a more grounded moment away from the cameras and sponsorships. Dunne used the occasion to thank the person she credits most, rather than to celebrate professional success or celebrity life.

Olivia Dunne continues building her life beyond gymnastics

Dunne has steadily expanded her career outside sports since retiring from competitive gymnastics. She’s been to high-profile events, worked with big brands, and continued to build a presence on many platforms.

She has also stayed very in touch with LSU gymnastics and her long-time supporters. Fans are watching her every move as she juggles influencer work, business ventures, and public appearances.

Her latest Mother’s Day message may have been short, but it reminded followers that, behind the fame and millions of followers, family still has the biggest space in her life.

Read more at the Gymnastics Digest!

Written by

Chitrak Mukherjee

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason