Mary Lou Retton, a name synonymous with gymnastics excellence, captivated the world with her performances during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Known for her extraordinary talent and charming personality, Retton became a symbol of American athletic achievement.
Who Is Mary Lou Retton?
Mary Lou Retton is a retired American gymnast who rose to fame with her exceptional performance at the 1984 Olympics. Born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, she became the first American woman to win the gold medal in the all-around gymnastics competition.
Retton’s accomplishments extended beyond the Olympics, earning her a place as one of the most celebrated gymnasts in history.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Mary Lou Retton
- Born: January 24, 1968
- Birthplace: Fairmont, West Virginia
- Spouse: Shannon Kelley (married 1990-2018)
- Children: Shayla, McKenna, Skyla, and Emma
- Astrological Sign: Aquarius
Early Life
Growing up in Fairmont, West Virginia, Mary Lou was inspired by Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who achieved perfection at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
Retton’s parents, Ronnie and Lois Retton, supported her early interest in gymnastics, and she trained locally before moving to Houston in the early 1980s. Under the guidance of renowned coach Béla Károlyi, she honed her skills and prepared for international competition.
Gymnastics Career and 1984 Olympics
Mary Lou Retton’s career reached its zenith during the 1984 Olympics. Despite a significant health scare just weeks before the Games, including an arthroscopic knee surgery, Retton made an impressive comeback.
Prayers 🙏 for #MaryLouRetton
— G.Michelle (Cox) Hundertmark (@gmichelleh16) October 11, 2023
MaryLou …I adore her! What a powerhouse for the USA! I left gymnastics for cheerleading ..still love the sport. Please get well ..icu.. pneumonia..
1984 Olympic Gold 🥇 All-Around pic.twitter.com/Nd3DiDpM1n
At the Olympics, she secured the gold medal in the women’s all-around competition with a perfect score of 10 on the vault—a historic achievement as it was the first time a woman from outside Eastern Europe won the title. In total, Retton won five medals, including two silver and two bronze, making her performance one of the most remarkable in Olympic history.
Her success made her a household name and earned her the title of “America’s Sweetheart.” She was featured on the cover of Wheaties boxes and celebrated with President Ronald Reagan, further solidifying her place in American sports lore.
Ex-Husband and Children
Mary Lou Retton married Shannon Kelley, a former quarterback for the University of Texas, in 1990. The couple had four daughters: Shayla, McKenna, Skyla, and Emma.
Emma is currently on the University of Arkansas gymnastics team, while McKenna competed for Louisiana State University. Retton and Kelley divorced in 2018, the same year she appeared on Season 27 of “Dancing with the Stars.”
Net Worth
Retton’s success in gymnastics, along with endorsement deals and public speaking engagements, has contributed to her estimated net worth of $2 million as of October 2023 (Celebrity Net Worth).
Health Problems and 2023 Hospitalization
Post-retirement, Retton faced various health challenges. She was diagnosed with hip dysplasia, leading to hip replacement surgery in 2005 (Healthline). Over the years, she underwent multiple surgeries, including back surgery for a degenerative bone disorder (WebMD).
Olympic Great Mary Lou Retton Opens Up About the Mystery Illness That Almost Put Her on Life Support
— Chief Nerd (@TheChiefNerd) January 12, 2024
“She was tested for everything – COVID, Flu, RSV, everything [was] negative. The X-Rays, you couldn’t even see her lungs, completely white. And I’ve never had a lung issue in my… pic.twitter.com/2DxqHurEaK
In October 2023, Retton was hospitalized with a rare form of pneumonia, leading to a severe health crisis. Her daughter, McKenna, launched a crowdfunding campaign to cover medical expenses, raising nearly $460,000 (TMZ).
Retton spent time in intensive care but was released from the hospital by October 23 and continues to recover at home (People).
Conclusion
Mary Lou Retton’s legacy transcends her Olympic victories. She remains a symbol of determination, resilience, and the spirit of American gymnastics. Despite recent health challenges, Retton’s impact on the sport and her inspiring journey continue to resonate with fans around the world.
