Mary Lou Retton is a retired American gymnast who gained fame for her remarkable performances in the 1984 Summer Olympics held in Los Angeles. She became the first American woman to win a gold medal in the all-around gymnastics competition, earning a total of five medals during the games. Born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia, Retton began gymnastics at a young age and trained rigorously to achieve her goals. Her success inspired many young athletes and contributed to the popularity of gymnastics in the United States. After retiring, she became a motivational speaker and television personality.