Mary Lou Retton Net Worth is $2 million in 2025.Mary Lou Retton Age is 57 years old in 2025.Mary Lou Retton was born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, is one of the most iconic figures in the history of American gymnastics.
Growing up, she was inspired by Soviet gymnast Nadia Comăneci’s perfect 10 at the 1976 Olympics and dreamed of achieving similar feats. With her talent, hard work, and determination, Retton quickly rose through the ranks of U.S. gymnastics, eventually earning a spot on the Olympic team.
Her athleticism and unwavering focus led her to become a key figure in gymnastics, especially after her stellar performance at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. At the 1984 Olympics, Retton made history by winning the gold medal in the all-around competition, making her the first American woman to achieve this feat.
In addition to the gold medal, she secured two silver and two bronze medals, solidifying her status as one of the sport’s greatest athletes. Retton’s achievements in gymnastics inspired an entire generation and helped to popularize the sport in the United States.
Her dedication, perseverance, and success are a testament to the power of hard work and the pursuit of excellence, earning her a lasting legacy in the world of Olympic gymnastics.
Mary Lou Retton Biography/Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Mary Lou Retton |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1968 |
| Place of Birth | Fairmont, West Virginia, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) |
| Weight | 85 pounds (39 kg) |
| Discipline | Artistic Gymnastics |
| Coach | Bela Károlyi, Marta Károlyi |
| Olympic Games | 1984 Summer Olympics, Los Angeles, California |
| Olympic Medal(s) | 1 Gold (All-Around), 2 Silver, 2 Bronze |
| Gold Medal Event | 1984 Summer Olympics – All-Around Gymnastics (First American woman to win) |
| Other Olympic Events | Vault (Bronze), Uneven Bars (Silver), Floor Exercise (Silver), Team Event (Bronze) |
| Notable Achievements | – First American woman to win the Olympic all-around gold medal (1984) |
| – 1984 Olympics total: 5 medals (1 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze) | |
| – Helped raise the profile of gymnastics in the U.S. | |
| Retirement | Retired after the 1984 Olympics |
| Post-Gymnastics Career | – Sports commentary |
| – Public speaker | |
| – Endorsed various products and appeared in commercials | |
| – TV appearances, including “Dancing with the Stars” in 2007 | |
| Family | – Father: Ronnie Retton |
| – Mother: Dorothy Retton | |
| – Siblings: Older brother, older sister, and younger sister | |
| – Spouse: Shannon Kelly (married in 1990) | |
| – Children: 4 daughters (Shannon, Skyla, McKenna, and Emma) | |
| Inspiration | Inspired by Nadia Comăneci’s perfect 10 in 1976 |
| Major Sponsors | – Kellogg’s |
| – Wheaties | |
| – Nike | |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame (1997) |
| Awards | – Sports Illustrated Sportswoman of the Year (1984) |
| – Numerous honorary awards for her contributions to gymnastics and sport | |
| Legacy | – One of the most recognizable gymnasts in U.S. history |
| – Pioneering role in promoting gymnastics in America | |
| Notable Influence | – Inspired a generation of gymnasts, including Olympic champions like Simone Biles |
| Charitable Work | – Involved in several charitable endeavors and foundations, focusing on sports for youth |
| Publications | – Co-author of the book “Mary Lou Retton: An Autobiography” |
Who is Mary Lou Retton?
Mary Lou Retton is a former American gymnast who gained international fame for her remarkable achievements at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
Born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Retton began gymnastics at a young age, driven by the inspiration of Soviet gymnast Nadia Comăneci, who scored a perfect 10 at the 1976 Olympics.
Through years of rigorous training, particularly under the coaching of Bela and Marta Károlyi, she developed into one of the most talented gymnasts in the world.
Retton’s breakout moment came at the 1984 Olympics, where she made history by winning the gold medal in the all-around competition, becoming the first American woman to do so.In addition to her gold medal, Retton won two silver medals in vault and uneven bars, along with two bronze medals in floor exercise and the team event.
Her incredible performance helped elevate the profile of gymnastics in the United States and inspired a generation of gymnasts. Retton’s achievement not only changed the landscape of gymnastics in America but also cemented her place as one of the most iconic figures in the sport’s history.
Beyond gymnastics, she has remained active in media, public speaking, and charity work, continuing to inspire and motivate others.
Mary Lou Retton Early Life and Family
Raised in a supportive family, Mary Lou was the youngest of four children. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for sports and physical activity.
Her parents, especially her father, played a pivotal role in encouraging her athletic pursuits. Mary Lou’s early introduction to gymnastics came when she was introduced to the sport at the age of six.
Initially, her family was concerned about the financial costs associated with her training, but they were fully committed to helping her succeed. Her father worked tirelessly to support her dream, even traveling with her to training camps across the country.
Her journey in gymnastics was further shaped by her intense training regimen. At the age of 14, she moved to Houston, Texas, to train under legendary coaches Bela and Marta Károlyi, who would become instrumental in her success.
This transition proved crucial in her development as a gymnast, and under the Károlyis’ guidance, she honed the skills that would lead her to Olympic stardom.
Despite the challenges and sacrifices, Mary Lou’s close-knit family remained her source of strength, with their unwavering support fueling her determination to achieve greatness in gymnastics.
Mary Lou Retton Amazing Career
Mary Lou Retton’s gymnastics career is nothing short of extraordinary. She first gained national attention at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where she made history by becoming the first American woman to win the Olympic gold medal in the all-around gymnastics competition.
This victory was a monumental achievement, as it marked the peak of her years of dedication and intense training.
In addition to her all-around gold, Retton earned two silver medals (in vault and uneven bars) and two bronze medals (in floor exercise and team competition), solidifying her place as one of the top gymnasts in the world.
Her achievements at the 1984 Olympics helped raise the profile of gymnastics in the U.S. and inspired countless young athletes. Retton’s gymnastics career continued to shine after the Olympics, with her skill and charisma gaining her widespread recognition.
She became a media personality, appearing in commercials, television shows, and public speaking engagements. Her success and popularity opened doors for future generations of gymnasts, particularly American women, who would look up to her as a role model.
Retton’s impact went beyond her Olympic accomplishments, as she helped elevate gymnastics to new heights in the U.S., ensuring her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.
Mary Lou Retton Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Category | Details |
| Height | 4 feet 9 inches (1.45 meters) |
| Weight | 85 pounds (39 kg) |
| Body Type | Petite and muscular |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Hair Length | Short to medium length |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Skin Tone | Fair |
| Build | Lean and toned, with well-defined muscles due to rigorous gymnastics training |
| Notable Features | – Small, compact frame ideal for gymnastics |
| – Defined leg muscles from extensive practice in vaulting and floor routines | |
| Gymnastics Influence | – Her physical appearance, particularly her muscular legs and small stature, made her ideal for the sport of gymnastics |
| Post-Gymnastics | – Over time, Retton’s physical appearance evolved, as she pursued various other ventures outside of gymnastics |
| Fitness | Even post-retirement, Mary Lou Retton maintained an active lifestyle and remained fit, often participating in fitness-related activities |
| Public Image | Retton’s small frame and powerful presence made her an iconic figure in gymnastics, often showcasing her physical prowess on TV and in commercials |
Mary Lou Retton Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship status
Mary Lou Retton’s personal life has been a subject of public interest, particularly her relationships. In 1990, she married Shannon Kelly, an American football player, and the couple had a strong partnership throughout her post-gymnastics career.
Together, they had four daughters: Shannon, Skyla, McKenna, and Emma. Their marriage was seen as a model of support and mutual respect, with Kelly standing by Retton during her rise to fame and after her Olympic success.
The couple’s relationship remained strong for many years, but in 2018, they announced their separation after 27 years of marriage. Despite the split, Retton and Kelly remained amicable and continued to co-parent their children, focusing on maintaining a healthy and supportive family environment.
Following her separation, Mary Lou Retton has kept her personal life relatively private. She has focused on her career in public speaking, media appearances, and charitable work. While there has been no public confirmation of a new partner, Retton has continued to prioritize her family and personal growth.
Throughout her life, her relationships have remained important to her, and her commitment to her children, as well as her continued influence as a former Olympic champion, remains central to her identity.
Mary Lou Retton Net Worth
| Category | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth | $2 million |
| Primary Source of Income | Gymnastics career, endorsements, public speaking, media appearances |
| Olympic Earnings | – As an amateur gymnast, Mary Lou Retton did not receive earnings from the Olympics, as prize money was not common at the time. However, she gained considerable sponsorship deals after her Olympic success. |
| Endorsements | – Retton earned substantial income from high-profile endorsement deals, particularly with brands like Wheaties, Kellogg’s, Nike, and various other companies. |
| TV Appearances | – She appeared in several commercials, television shows, and media campaigns after her Olympic career. Notably, she was a spokesperson for various fitness and health brands. |
| Public Speaking | – Mary Lou Retton has made a significant income from motivational speaking engagements and public appearances, sharing her experiences in gymnastics and perseverance. |
| Book Deals | – Retton co-authored her autobiography, “Mary Lou Retton: An Autobiography,” which added to her income. The book recounts her rise to Olympic glory and life after retirement. |
| Business Ventures | – She has been involved in business ventures, including fitness-related activities, branded merchandise, and partnerships with sports-related companies. |
| TV Show Appearances | – Retton made appearances on popular shows like Dancing with the Stars in 2007, where she gained exposure and further opportunities for income. |
| Gymnastics Commentary | – Retton has worked as a commentator and analyst for gymnastics events, particularly during Olympic Games and other international competitions. |
| Charity Work & Events | – Although much of her earnings have come from her career in entertainment and endorsements, Retton also participates in charity events, sometimes raising funds or donating her time. |
| Post-Gymnastics Career | – After retiring from gymnastics, Retton continued to capitalize on her fame, taking part in fitness programs, speaking engagements, and media appearances. |
| Investments | – While there are no detailed public records of her investment portfolio, like many athletes, she may have made strategic investments in real estate, businesses, or stocks. |
| Property | – Retton has invested in real estate and may own properties as part of her wealth-building strategy. |
Mary Lou Retton Future Plan and goal
Mary Lou Retton’s future plans and goals are centered around continuing her personal growth, contributing to the community, and staying active in the public sphere.
As a motivational speaker and advocate for fitness, she plans to inspire the next generation of athletes, particularly young women, to pursue their dreams in sports and life. She has expressed an ongoing commitment to supporting youth programs and empowering children to stay healthy and active.
Through her speaking engagements and media appearances, Retton aims to further emphasize the importance of perseverance, discipline, and self-belief — values that were integral to her own success in gymnastics.
In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Retton continues to focus on her personal well-being, staying fit and involved in physical activities. She has shared her passion for fitness through social media and other platforms, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
As she looks ahead, she also remains involved in various charitable endeavors and has aspirations of creating a more significant impact in the areas of youth sports and education.
Though retired from professional gymnastics, Mary Lou Retton’s legacy lives on, and her future plans reflect a desire to leave a lasting positive influence on both the gymnastics community and broader society.
Mary Lou Retton Social Media
| Social Media Platform | Details |
| Instagram Handle | @marylouretton |
| Followers | 100K Followers |
| Following | 2,575 Following |
| Posts | 788 Posts |
| Content | Retton shares a mix of personal photos, family moments, fitness content, and motivational posts. |
| Engagement | Retton frequently engages with her audience by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, gym routines, and life updates. |
| Brand Collaborations | She promotes various fitness, health, and wellness brands through sponsored posts and collaborations. |
| Notable Features | – Retton often posts about her daughters, her fitness journey, and public appearances. |
| – Her posts reflect her healthy lifestyle, inspirational messages, and her continued influence in the fitness world. | |
| TikTok | |
| TikTok Handle | @marylouretton |
| Followers | 43.9M Followers (estimated) |
| Likes | 43.9M Likes (estimated) |
| Content | Mary Lou shares a wide variety of content, including motivational videos, fitness challenges, and family moments. |
| Engagement | Her TikTok videos often feature trends, athletic feats, and inspiring messages, gaining significant engagement. |
| Brand Collaborations | Similar to Instagram, she also promotes fitness brands and health-related products. |
| Notable Features | – Her TikTok presence showcases a fun, energetic side and connects with younger audiences. |
| – Retton’s videos are often engaging and showcase her personality, making her a relatable and accessible figure. |
Fun Facts about Mary Lou Retton Net Worth
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First American Female Gold Medalist:
Mary Lou became the first American woman to win the Olympic gold medal in gymnastics in 1984, securing the all-around title at the Los Angeles Olympics.
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Commercial Star:
After her Olympic success, Retton became a well-known face in commercials, including a famous ad for Wheaties, often referred to as the “Breakfast of Champions.”
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Dancing with the Stars:
In 2007, she competed on Dancing with the Stars, showcasing her dance skills and finishing in the top 5.
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Short Stature, Big Impact:
Standing at just 4 feet 9 inches, Mary Lou’s compact frame made her perfect for gymnastics, but her powerful performances made her a giant in the sport.
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Inspiring a Generation:
Retton inspired countless young gymnasts, including Simone Biles, who has cited Mary Lou as one of her early idols in the sport.
Mary Lou Retton Videos and Images
Frequently Asked Questions about Mary Lou Retton Net Worth
What made Mary Lou Retton famous?
Mary Lou Retton became famous for her historic performance at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. She won the gold medal in the all-around gymnastics competition, becoming the first American woman to achieve this feat. Her success in the Olympics, along with her charismatic personality, made her a household name and an inspiration for future gymnasts.
How many Olympic medals did Mary Lou Retton win?
Mary Lou Retton won a total of five Olympic medals at the 1984 Summer Olympics. This includes one gold medal in the all-around competition, two silver medals in vault and uneven bars, and two bronze medals in floor exercise and the team event, making her one of the most decorated athletes of those Games.
Is Mary Lou Retton still involved in gymnastics?
Although Mary Lou Retton retired from competitive gymnastics after the 1984 Olympics, she remains involved in the gymnastics community. She has worked as a commentator for gymnastics events, appeared in various media outlets, and continues to promote fitness and sportsmanship through public speaking and charity work.
What is Mary Lou Retton doing now?
Mary Lou Retton continues to stay active in her post-gymnastics career. She works as a motivational speaker, appears on television shows, and advocates for fitness and health. Additionally, she is involved in charitable work, focusing on youth sports and inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams.
Conclusion about Mary Lou Retton Net Worth
Mary Lou Retton’s legacy in the world of gymnastics is nothing short of remarkable. Her groundbreaking victory in the 1984 Olympics, where she became the first American woman to win the gold medal in the all-around competition, elevated her to international stardom.
With a total of five Olympic medals, she solidified her place as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Beyond her athletic achievements, Retton’s contributions to the sport, including her role in popularizing gymnastics in the U.S., have inspired generations of athletes and fans alike.
Her success, both in the gym and in her personal life, reflects her determination, work ethic, and resilience.In addition to her accomplishments in gymnastics, Mary Lou Retton has remained a prominent public figure, actively engaging with her community and inspiring others.
Through her public speaking, television appearances, and involvement in various charitable causes, she continues to make a positive impact.
Whether promoting fitness, mentoring young athletes, or sharing her personal experiences, Retton’s influence extends far beyond the gymnastics arena. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and serves as an enduring source of motivation for those who follow in her footsteps.