During Monday’s World Baseball Classic game against Mexico, Paul Skenes delivered a standout performance for Team USA. However, his biggest supporter, Olivia “Livvy” Dunne, was noticeably absent. The former LSU gymnastics star and Skenes’ girlfriend revealed on social media that a work commitment kept her from watching the Cy Young winner pitch live.
Dunne shared a video with the caption,
Ya girls gotta work but…GO USA RAHHH,
along with an American bald eagle emoji, expressing her support despite missing the game.
Livvy Dunne’s Social Media Tribute to Paul Skenes
In the posted video, Dunne enthusiastically holds up a Paul Skenes No. 30 jersey, clearly excited to see him represent the United States on the international stage. The video flashes the caption,
getting excited to watch your bf rep the USA,
before cutting to another clip showing her in different clothes with the words “misses game” displayed, underscoring her missed opportunity to be there in person.
Although it wasn’t specified what work obligations prevented her attendance, Dunne had been present for Team USA’s earlier activities. She had posted from the stands at one of the exhibition games in Arizona just days before the official tournament began.
Paul Skenes’ Dominant Performance on the Mound
Skenes excelled in his four innings on the mound, allowing only one hit and striking out seven batters while walking just a single opponent. His control and dominance were vital in maintaining Team USA’s strong position.
Commenting on his experience, Skenes told Fox’s broadcast team it felt “awesome” to wear the Team USA jersey. Reflecting on the momentum, he said,
Getting that five-run inning made it really easy to go back out there, but that was unbelievable,
during an interview with Ken Rosenthal.
By the time Skenes exited the game at the start of the fifth inning, Team USA had built a commanding 5-0 lead over Mexico. Left-hander Garrett Cleavinger, a pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays, took over and pitched a scoreless inning, preserving the gap.
Mexico managed to narrow the margin to 5-3 in the eighth inning, fueled by two home runs from Red Sox star Jarren Duran, but Team USA maintained control to secure the victory.
The Broader Significance of Skenes’ Role for Team USA
Paul Skenes’ strong debut marks a promising start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, highlighting the young pitcher’s potential on an international stage. His performance not only boosts the team’s chances but also raises expectations for his continued contributions as the tournament progresses.
Livvy Dunne’s visible support, even while unable to attend in person, reflects the personal side of this sporting moment, emphasizing how athletes’ families and loved ones remain invested amid professional demands.
As the World Baseball Classic continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Skenes builds on this stellar start, while Team USA aims to advance further in the competition.
