Mary Lou Retton quotes

Mary Lou Retton, a celebrated American gymnast, became an international sensation after her spectacular performance at the 1984 Olympic Games. Born on January 24, 1968, in West Virginia, Retton quickly rose to prominence with her exceptional talent, winning countless championships and hearts along the way. With her infectious smile and unmatched athleticism, she became the first American woman to win the gymnastics all-around gold medal at the Olympics. Retton's success inspired a generation of gymnasts and helped popularize the sport in the United States. Even after retiring, she remained active as a sports commentator and motivational speaker. Discover more about Mary Lou Retton, her achievements, and impact on the gymnastics world.

I usually don't mind giving autographs, but when hundreds of folks with paper and pen start coming at you, it's time to seek shelter.

- Mary Lou Retton

Pay-per-view would deprive many kids of the delight of seeing the Olympics.

- Mary Lou Retton

That's because the International Olympic Committee has a policy of never replacing medals.

- Mary Lou Retton

In the dressing room, I always put on my right shoe first. Same thing for my right wristband.

- Mary Lou Retton

Fragile egos are put on the line every day.

- Mary Lou Retton

Companies that support sports developmental programs in our communities should also be applauded.

- Mary Lou Retton

If I had a bad performance in a particular leotard, I threw it in the trash.

- Mary Lou Retton

For athletes, the Olympics are the ultimate test of their worth.

- Mary Lou Retton

Be cocky. Walk into the Georgia Dome like you own it.

- Mary Lou Retton

Many athletes competing in Atlanta wouldn't be here if it weren't for corporate support.

- Mary Lou Retton

Having a home away from the media glare is important to world-class athletes.

- Mary Lou Retton

Getting to know athletes from all over the planet is a big part of the Olympic experience.

- Mary Lou Retton

It's going to be really weird when I'm 80 years old, in a walker, and people are still calling me America's sweetheart. We need a new one.

- Mary Lou Retton

I love her attitude, but as much as I'd like to bring my medals to a speech or appearance, I never do.

- Mary Lou Retton

Many medal winners dream of competing in a sport other than the one they're famous for.

- Mary Lou Retton

In L.A., we had a game room with a new sensation called Pac-Man.

- Mary Lou Retton

For six years, I kept my five Olympic medals wrapped in a plastic bread bag beneath my bed.

- Mary Lou Retton

Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn't go hand-in-hand with financial success.

- Mary Lou Retton

The endorsement game has been very good to me.

- Mary Lou Retton

As simple as it sounds, we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices, by making the most of the talents we've been given.

- Mary Lou Retton

As a kid, I was a pretty good little sprinter.

- Mary Lou Retton

You give up your childhood. You miss proms and games and high-school events, and people say it's awful... I say it was a good trade. You miss something but I think I gained more than I lost.

- Mary Lou Retton