FAIRMONT, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Olympic gold medalist and American gymnastics icon Mary Lou Retton entered a no contest plea Tuesday to a charge of driving under the influence, following a May traffic stop in her hometown of Fairmont.
A Marion County judge fined the 57-year-old Retton $100, the standard penalty for a first-time, non-aggravated DUI offense.
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In a statement issued through her attorney, Retton expressed regret and took full responsibility for her actions.
“What happened was completely unacceptable. I make no excuses,” she said. “To my family, friends and my fans: I have let you down, and for that I am deeply sorry. I am determined to learn and grow from this experience, and I am committed to making positive changes in my life. I truly appreciate your concern, encouragement and continued support.”
Fairmont police stopped Retton on May 17 after receiving a report of a Porsche being driven erratically.
Officers said she smelled of alcohol, slurred her speech, and failed a field sobriety test. A container of wine was reportedly found in the passenger seat.
Retton made history in 1984 when she became the first American woman to win the all-around gymnastics gold medal at the Los Angeles Olympics. She also earned two silver and two bronze medals that year, helping to propel the sport into the national spotlight.
In 2023, Retton faced serious health challenges after being hospitalized with a rare form of pneumonia. Her condition was critical, with dangerously low oxygen levels, and doctors considered placing her on a ventilator.
After weeks of treatment, she recovered enough to return home.
