Livvy Dunne, the LSU gymnast and social media sensation, has expressed cautious optimism about returning to competition following an avulsion fracture of her patella sustained on March 6, 2025. Despite the injury, which has kept her out of action since January 24, Dunne is hopeful about participating in the upcoming NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Texas, from April 17 to 19.
The avulsion fracture, an injury where a fragment of the kneecap detaches due to excessive pull from tendons or ligaments, is considered rare and typically results from significant trauma. Dunne’s injury, however, was due to overuse rather than impact, making it an uncommon occurrence in gymnastics. She has been focusing on recovery and regaining strength, with a particular emphasis on training for the uneven bars event. While she is unlikely to compete in events requiring tumbling or balance beam, Dunne considers her return in the uneven bars a possibility.
LSU head coach Jay Clark has described the injury as “extremely unusual,” noting that such fractures typically result from significant trauma, which Dunne did not experience. He remains “cautiously optimistic” about her potential return, emphasizing that her recovery depends on pain management and healing progress.
Dunne, now in her fifth and final year at LSU, had previously announced her absence from LSU’s senior night due to the injury, expressing heartbreak over missing the event. Despite graduating in December 2024, she chose to return for an additional year with the team and remains dedicated to contributing to LSU’s potential back-to-back NCAA championship win.
As the NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships approach, all eyes will be on Dunne’s recovery progress and whether she can make a successful return to competition. Her determination and resilience continue to inspire both her teammates and fans alike.
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