Olympic Gold-Medalist Gymnast Mary Lou Retton Reveals Past Fat-Shaming

Mary Lou Retton, the first American woman to win Olympic gold in the gymnastics all-around competition, has opened up about the fat-shaming she endured following her historic victory at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.

Retton, now 56, revealed that despite her athletic build, she was often criticized for her body type. “I was considered a big girl at 4 foot 9 and 94 pounds,” Retton told People. “They’d say, ‘You are heavy. You’re fat. This is not what gymnastics is supposed to look like.'”

The five-time Olympic medalist recalled being compared unfavorably to Earl Campbell, a former NFL running back known for his muscular thighs. Retton emphasized that such comparisons were not intended as compliments.

Looking back, Retton expressed pride in her physique and her role in changing perceptions of gymnasts’ body types. She sees her influence reflected in the powerful builds of modern gymnasts like Simone Biles.

Retton’s revelations come amid ongoing scrutiny of the gymnastics world’s treatment of athletes. While she did not specifically address abuse allegations, Retton trained under Bela and Marta Karolyi, coaches who have faced accusations of verbal and emotional abuse from other gymnasts.

The Olympic champion’s disclosure follows a recent health scare. In October, Retton was hospitalized with a rare form of pneumonia, a condition so severe that her four daughters feared for her life. Her recovery prompted a flood of public donations, totaling over $450,000.

Questions arose about the use of these funds, with Retton’s family facing calls for transparency. Her daughter McKenna stated that after covering medical expenses, remaining funds would be donated to a charity of Retton’s choice.

Despite her improved health, Retton will not attend the upcoming Paris Olympics. Instead, she’s preparing to become a grandmother for the first time.