Biographical Information

Mary Lou Retton, a legendary gymnast, was inspired by Nadia Comaneci to pursue gymnastics. At the young age of four, she began studying dance and acrobatics, setting the stage for her future success. To further her training, she moved to Houston, Texas, where she was coached by the renowned Romanian duo, Bela and Marta Karolyi. Her dedication and hard work quickly paid off, propelling her to the top of the gymnastics world.

Olympic Career

Just six weeks before the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games, Retton underwent knee surgery but made a remarkable recovery. She scored a perfect 10 and won five medals, including gold in the team competition, vault, floor exercise and uneven bars. Her performance made her a household name and earned her the distinction of being the first gymnast to be inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.

Career History

In 1983, Retton won the American Cup, Japan's Chunichi Cup and the American Classic.

In 1984, she repeated her American Classic win. Retton became the first American woman to win an individual Olympic medal in gymnastics. Sports Illustrated named her "Sportswoman of the Year" for her back-to-back perfect 10s and overall excellence.

Retirement

After retiring from competitive gymnastics, Retton made cameo appearances in several TV shows and films. She became a prominent spokesperson for various brands including Wheaties, Revco and Australian Dream.

She was elected to the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame, International Gymnastics Hall of Fame and Houston Sports Hall of Fame. She received the Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement, highlighting her impact beyond sports.

Personal Life

Mary Lou Retton has four daughters. Two of her daughters followed in her footsteps, becoming gymnasts themselves.

Olympic Experience

1-time Olympian; 5-time Olympic medalist (1 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze)
- Olympic Games Los Angeles 1984, gold (Individual All-Around - Women), silver (Team - Women, Vault - Women), bronze (Floor Exercise - Women, Uneven Bars - Women), 4th (Beam - Women)

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Age

Hometown

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