When Olivia Dunne dropped into a split on the runway at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Show in Miami, it wasn’t just a moment of surprise. It was a bold, confident move that fused athletic power with high-fashion poise. Now, the former LSU gymnast is opening up about how that show-stopping move came to life.
The moment, which took place back in May, instantly lit up social media. But behind the effortless look was a decision filled with nerves, adrenaline, and a little help from family.
From Gymnastics to the Runway
Olivia Dunne has long been known for her strength and discipline as a gymnast. After leading LSU to a national championship in 2024, she stepped away from the team due to injury and graduation. That shift gave her the chance to explore new platforms, and one of the biggest was walking in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit runway show.
Speaking on the podcast What’s Your Story? with Stephanie McMahon, Olivia revealed that this was her first time ever walking a runway, despite being a cover model for SI earlier this year.
“I’ve only ever walked in front of my bedroom mirror,” she laughed. “I was so nervous. They told me I was opening the show only two hours before.”
The Decision That Made Headlines
Wearing a black and white polka dot bikini with red bows, Olivia walked confidently down the runway. But what caught everyone off guard was what came next a flawless split at the end of the catwalk.
It wasn’t part of the plan at first.
“I asked my sister if I should do a split, and of course, she said yes,” Olivia shared. “I only consulted people I knew would agree with me.” She later asked Sports Illustrated editor MJ Day, who encouraged her to have fun and bring her personality to the show.
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“I wanted to show my athleticism and do something unexpected,” Olivia explained. “I don’t think anyone’s ever done it. And this wasn’t a typical runway. They wanted fun, movement, and real energy.”
So, with her skin glowing from oil and adrenaline pumping, Olivia went for it and created a moment fashion lovers and sports fans won’t soon forget.
Confidence, Strength, and Fun
What makes Olivia’s story so refreshing is how it blends body confidence, athletic strength, and playful femininity. Her split wasn’t about showing off. It was about showing up fully, embracing who she is, and not toning down her identity for fashion’s sake.
That mindset fits beautifully into today’s beauty conversations. Women like Olivia are redefining what it means to feel strong, beautiful, and unapologetic whether it’s in a leotard or on a runway.