The 2025 Kentucky Derby weekend has officially begun at Churchill Downs, but before the horses could even make it to the gate, one name was already dominating headlines: Olivia “Livvy” Dunne. The former LSU gymnastics sensation and current social media juggernaut has arrived in Louisville, and let’s be clear: she’s not just attending; she’s owning the moment.
Fresh off her NCAA gymnastics farewell tour with the LSU Tigers, Dunne is stepping into a new career as a full-time content creator. Suppose her entrance at the Kentucky Oaks on Friday was any indication. In that case, she’s doing it with the same flair, confidence, and unapologetic charm that made her a household name in college sports. The gym floor may be behind her, but the spotlight is still shining bright, and she’s basking on it.
Livvy Starts the Show with Iconic “Riders Up” Moment
Churchill Downs is no stranger to spectacle, but Livvy Dunne delivered something fresh and electric as she stepped onto the turf in a bold, bright pink dress to officially launch the 2025 Kentucky Oaks. With thousands of eyes on her and plenty of cameras, Dunne delivered the traditional “Riders up” call, the ceremonial cue that kicks off the racing action.
“Kentucky Oaks fans,” Dunne said into the mic with effortless poise. “Now, for the annual tradition we have all been looking forward to, riders up!”
Just like that, Derby weekend was off to the races. Dunne wasn’t just there for the photo op. She set the tone for the entire weekend. The Kentucky Oaks may not have the same mainstream fame as Saturday’s main event, but the stakes are still sky-high. The race, exclusive to three-year-old thoroughbred fillies, carries an $850,000 purse and draws an elite crowd of racing enthusiasts, fashion icons, and influencers alike.
From NCAA Superstar to Full-Time Influencer
Livvy Dunne is writing her playbook for anyone wondering what comes after a career at the top of collegiate gymnastics. It includes luxury events, high-profile appearances, and a front-row seat to the world’s most elite sports and lifestyle events.
Dunne’s presence at the Oaks was more than just a fashionable cameo. It marked her first major event as a full-time creator, and she ensured everyone knew she was here to stay. Her TikTok caption, “your girl’s first Derby,” said it all. She’s not just attending the Kentucky Derby. She’s entering it into her era.
Her social media dominance is only growing stronger. With her relationship with Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes adding a sports power-couple dynamic, Dunne’s reach extends well beyond gymnastics. She’s a brand, a business, and the moment.
The Fit, The Vibe, The Energy
In true Livvy fashion, the fashion did not disappoint. Her bright pink dress was a nod to the Oaks’ signature color, but it was a statement. It was bold, eye-catching, and screamed confidence. Paired with her signature blonde waves and radiant smile, the dress had fans and photographers swarming.
Dunne understands the assignment every time she steps out. She’s not just playing the game; she’s redefining it. Her look wasn’t just about being pretty for the camera. It was about power, precision, and putting herself front and center in a space that often overlooks young women influencers as anything more than background noise. Not today, not on Livvy’s watch.
A Celebrity-Heavy Weekend Ahead
While Dunne may have stolen the show Friday, she’s hardly the only name bringing star power to Churchill Downs this weekend. The 2025 Kentucky Derby is shaping into one of the most celebrity-saturated events in recent memory.
NFL icons Travis and Jason Kelce are expected to attend, bringing their mix of athletic swagger and entertainment appeal. Grammy-winning country superstar Chris Stapleton, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, and Hollywood royalty George Clooney are all set to make appearances.
Add to that global megastar Taylor Swift, comedy legend Tracy Morgan, and four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, and it becomes clear this isn’t just a horse race. It’s a cultural event.
Joining Dunne in representing the influencer crowd are fellow digital powerhouses Alix Earle and Alex Cooper, proving that the Derby is no longer just for the old guard of Southern aristocracy. A new generation of tastemakers in town is not asking permission to sit at the table.
Dunne’s Moment Is Just Beginning
With the Kentucky Oaks behind her and the Derby still ahead, Livvy Dunne is settling into her new reality as a fixture on the national stage. She’s no longer just the gymnast who went viral. She’s a full-blown media personality with the reach and cultural influence that makes brand managers and event organizers line up at her DMs.
Churchill Downs may be steeped in history, but with Dunne’s presence this weekend, it’s also looking firmly toward the future. A future that’s bolder, younger, and decidedly more pink.
Welcome to Livvy’s world. The Derby is just along for the ride.
