Credited from: CBSNEWS
Mary Lou Retton, the iconic gymnastics champion, was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Marion County, West Virginia, on May 17. Records indicate she was charged with a misdemeanor count and subsequently posted a $1,500 personal recognizance bond the same day. Retton, now 57, is widely celebrated for being the first American woman to win gold in the individual all-around event at the 1984 Olympics, where she also secured two silver and two bronze medals, achieving household fame. This legal trouble comes as Retton faces scrutiny regarding her health and personal struggles following a remarkable career, according to CBS News, HuffPost, Los Angeles Times, and BBC.
The circumstances of Retton's arrest raise significant concerns. Allegedly, she refused to take a breathalyzer or blood test after police observed her behavior and found an open container of wine in her vehicle. Reports claim she exhibited slurred speech and failed a sobriety test, which has prompted further legal examination. Retton’s history, combined with this recent incident, presents a complicated legal landscape, as she remains a revered figure in American sports history, according to CBS News and Los Angeles Times.
In addition to her legal issues, Retton is also known for facing serious health challenges in recent years. In 2023, she battled a rare form of pneumonia that resulted in a harrowing stay in intensive care. During that time, her daughter shared online that Retton was uninsured and needed substantial financial assistance for her medical treatments. This backstory adds context to her current circumstances, highlighting the trials she has faced post-competition, according to HuffPost, BBC, and Los Angeles Times.