Mary Lou Retton | Biography

• By Priyanka Das
• Original : April 18, 2025

Who is Mary Lou Retton?

Mary Lou Retton is a retired American gymnast who gained world fame as a gymnastics icon during the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Retton was inspired by the remarkable performances of Nadia Comaneci at the 1976 Olympics, sparking her passion for the sport. Her dedication took her to Houston, Texas, where she trained under the renowned coach Béla Károlyi. With her compact stature and powerful athleticism, she quickly rose through the ranks of gymnastics, claiming significant victories at prestigious competitions, including the American Cup and U.S. Nationals in the early 1980s.

Retton's crowning achievement came at the 1984 Olympics, where she made history by becoming the first female gymnast outside of Eastern Europe to win the gold medal in the women's all-around competition. Her dynamic routines, highlighted by a perfect score on the vault, captivated audiences and earned her a total of five Olympic medals—two silver and three bronze—solidifying her status as a national hero and earning her the title "America's Sweetheart." Beyond her achievements in gymnastics, Retton has remained a prominent figure in sports, serving as a commentator and motivational speaker while also advocating for health and fitness.

Early Life and Education

Mary Lou Retton was born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, to Ronnie and Lois Retton. Growing up in an athletic family, her father was a celebrated star in sports, leading the West Virginia University basketball team to the NCAA finals in 1959 before transitioning to a career in professional baseball. This environment fostered a competitive spirit and love for sports in Mary Lou, who was the youngest of five siblings. Her family encouraged her interests, particularly in gymnastics, which she developed a passion for after witnessing Nadia Comaneci’s historic performances at the 1976 Olympics.

Retton's journey in gymnastics began at a local dance studio, where she learned acrobatics. Recognizing the need for specialized training, her family made the significant decision to relocate to Houston when she was just a teenager. There, she joined Béla Károlyi, an acclaimed Romanian coach, known for molding several gymnastic champions. Under his guidance, Retton honed her skills and developed a distinctive style that complemented her strong, compact frame. Her dedication and hard work paid off, leading her to win notable competitions, including the 1983 American Cup and the 1984 U.S. Nationals, setting the stage for her historic Olympic appearance just a year later.

Gymnastics Career and 1984 Olympics

Mary Lou Retton is heralded as one of the most iconic figures in gymnastics, best known for her stellar performance at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. Although she was already considered one of the top competitors in the sport, Retton faced a significant health challenge just weeks before the Olympics when she required arthroscopic knee surgery to repair damaged cartilage. Undeterred, she embarked on a rigorous rehabilitation program, managing to return to form in an astonishingly short time. This comeback set the stage for her legendary Olympic performance, culminating in a gold medal in the women’s all-around competition, where she achieved a perfect score of 10 on the vault.

Retton's 1984 Olympic triumph marked a significant milestone, as she became the first American female gymnast to earn the all-around title against a backdrop of dominance by Eastern European athletes. Her success at the Games did not go unnoticed; she came away with five medals total, including two silver and two bronze. This remarkable achievement earned her the affectionate title of "America's Sweetheart," leading to numerous endorsement deals and appearances, solidifying her legacy in the world of sports. Retton’s magnetic personality and wholesome appeal inspired a generation, allowing her to transition smoothly into roles as a spokesperson and motivational speaker after retiring from competitive gymnastics in 1986.

Ex-Husband and Children

Mary Lou Retton was married to Shannon Kelley, a former quarterback for the University of Texas football team, in 1990. The couple went on to have four daughters together: Shayla, born in 1995; McKenna, born in 1997; Skyla, born in 2000; and Emma, born in 2002. Each of her daughters has forged their own paths, with Emma currently competing on the University of Arkansas gymnastics team. McKenna also made a mark in collegiate gymnastics, particularly during her time at Louisiana State University, showcasing the athletic legacy that Retton has passed on to her children.

After nearly three decades of marriage, Retton and Kelley divorced in 2018. The split marked a significant change in Retton’s life, as she continued to navigate her career and maintain a close relationship with her daughters as they grew up. That same year, she also participated in Season 27 of ABC's reality competition show "Dancing with the Stars," demonstrating her enduring commitment to both her personal and professional endeavors. Despite the challenges, Retton remains a devoted mother, actively supporting her daughters as they pursue their own dreams in and out of the gym.

Health Problems and 2023 Hospitalization

Mary Lou Retton, the celebrated Olympic gymnast, has faced significant health challenges in recent years that have impacted her quality of life. After her retirement from gymnastics, Retton began experiencing hip pain so severe that it limited her ability to play and engage fully with her children. This concern led to a diagnosis of hip dysplasia, a condition she was born with that eventually resulted in end-stage arthritis due to the extensive physical demands of her gymnastics career. In 2005, she underwent a total hip replacement, which was just one of numerous surgeries that addressed her deteriorating health.

In October 2023, Retton’s health took a critical turn when she was hospitalized with a rare form of pneumonia, spending significant time in the intensive care unit. Her daughter, McKenna, revealed that Retton struggled to breathe independently, highlighting the urgency of her condition. The Retton family initiated a crowdfunding campaign to help cover her medical expenses, reflecting both the gravity of her situation and the public's willingness to support a beloved figure. Fortunately, by late October, McKenna announced that her mother was back home, yet Retton’s journey to recovery remains ongoing and challenging.

Personal Life: Married Life

Mary Lou Retton married Shannon Kelley, a former quarterback for the University of Texas football team, in 1990. The couple built a life together, welcoming four daughters: Shayla, born in 1995; McKenna, born in 1997; Skyla, born in 2000; and Emma, born in 2002. Retton balanced her responsibilities as a dedicated mother with her career, showcasing the blend of athleticism and family that she valued deeply. Their daughters have followed in their parents' athletic footsteps, with Emma currently competing on the gymnastics team at the University of Arkansas and McKenna having previously competed at Louisiana State University.

Despite their strong foundation, Retton and Kelley decided to divorce in 2018, marking the end of nearly three decades of marriage. Following the separation, Retton embraced new opportunities, such as participating in Season 27 of the popular ABC reality competition "Dancing with the Stars." Living in Houston, she continues to be a strong presence both in her daughters' lives and in the gymnastics community. Retton's journey as a mother remains central to her identity, reflecting her resilience and dedication beyond her storied athletic career.

Net Worth and Earning: $2 million

Mary Lou Retton, the iconic figure in gymnastics, has accumulated an estimated net worth of $2 million as of October 2023. Her wealth stems primarily from her successful gymnastics career, notably highlighted by her remarkable performance at the 1984 Olympics, where she won five medals, including a gold in the all-around competition. Following her retirement, Retton transitioned into a lucrative career as a public speaker and motivational coach, leveraging her Olympic fame to secure numerous endorsement deals. Her appearances on media platforms and in commercials contributed significantly to her financial earnings over the years.

In addition to her earnings from endorsements and public speaking engagements, Retton's relatable persona, often dubbed "America’s Sweetheart," helped solidify her status as a prominent figure in American sports. Her collaborations with brands and her appearances in popular culture, including her participation in "Dancing with the Stars," further expanded her visibility and financial prospects. Despite facing substantial medical bills in recent years, Retton's enduring popularity and strategic career choices have positioned her well financially, ensuring her place in the sports community as both an inspiration and a successful entrepreneur.

FAQs

What is Mary Lou Retton known for?

Mary Lou Retton is known for her remarkable career in gymnastics, particularly her achievements at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. She won a gold medal in the women's all-around competition and became the first female gymnast from outside Eastern Europe to achieve this feat. Additionally, Retton earned a total of five Olympic medals, solidifying her status as an icon in American sports.

When was Mary Lou Retton born?

Mary Lou Retton was born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia. Growing up in a family that valued sports, her early exposure to athletics played a significant role in her development as an elite gymnast.

What challenges did Mary Lou Retton face during her gymnastics career?

Before competing in the 1984 Olympics, Mary Lou Retton faced a serious health challenge when she required arthroscopic knee surgery just six weeks prior to the games. Despite this setback, she made a remarkable recovery and went on to perform at an exceptional level, ultimately winning the gold medal in the women's all-around event.

What are some of Mary Lou Retton's accomplishments beyond gymnastics?

After retiring from gymnastics, Mary Lou Retton became a successful commentator and an in-demand motivational speaker. She also made numerous television appearances, including competing on Season 27 of "Dancing with the Stars" in 2018. Her contributions to sports and popular culture have earned her a place in the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame.

How many children does Mary Lou Retton have?

Mary Lou Retton has four daughters: Shayla, McKenna, Skyla, and Emma. Her family is a significant part of her life, and she has remained actively involved in their lives, supporting their pursuits and interests.

What is Mary Lou Retton's current health status?

As of October 2023, Mary Lou Retton has recently recovered from a rare form of pneumonia that required her hospitalization. While she is now back home, her family has indicated that she has a long road of recovery ahead of her. Retton's health challenges have been ongoing, including previous surgeries and a diagnosis of hip dysplasia.

What is Mary Lou Retton's net worth?

Mary Lou Retton is estimated to have a net worth of around $2 million as of October 2023. Her wealth has been generated through her successful gymnastics career, endorsement deals, and public speaking engagements.