Mary Lou

Retton

Quick Facts

• Specialty: Floor exercise and vault 

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. 

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.

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. 

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

Olympic Highlights

Just six weeks before her Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 1984 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. 

Retton also became the first American woman to win an individual Olympic medal in gymnastics. 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.

Sports Illustrated named her "Sportswoman of the Year" for her back-to-back perfect 10s and overall excellence.

Early Career

In 1983, Retton won the American Cup, Japan's Chunichi Cup and the American Classic. In 1984, she repeated her American Classic win. 

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)