Mary Lou Retton DUI Arrest Video Raises Questions About Former Olympian's Health and Wellbeing

Mary Lou Retton, a celebrated American gymnast who once inspired millions, now faces questions about her health after a startling DUI arrest in May.

Bodycam footage reveals a visibly distressed Retton in a difficult state, prompting widespread concern over her current condition and future.

The Incident and Immediate Aftermath

On 17 May 2025, Mary Lou Retton was stopped by police in Marion County, West Virginia, after reports of erratic driving. Officers found her in a Porsche with Texas plates, alongside an open bottle of wine on the passenger seat. The footage from the arrest shows her attempting to perform a sobriety test, appearing confused and struggling to complete basic tasks. At one point, she attaches her oxygen tube to her nose while trying to walk the line, indicating ongoing respiratory issues.

Retton, 57, is seen gasping and expressing shock at the situation, her distress evident. She had been relying on daily oxygen therapy since recovering from a severe pneumonia in 2023, which left her with lasting lung damage. Her health struggles have been publicly acknowledged, but the recent footage underscores the severity of her condition.

A Life Marked by Triumph and Trials

Born in Fairmont, West Virginia, on 24 January 1968, Retton became a household name after winning five medals at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, including the first-ever all-around gold for an American woman. Her small stature—just 4 feet 9 inches—belied her remarkable talent and charisma, making her an enduring symbol of athletic achievement.

Her personal life has seen its share of upheaval. She married Shannon Kelley in 1990, with whom she had four daughters. The couple divorced in 2018, yet her family remains a source of strength during her challenges. Her recent health issues have been compounded by her need for oxygen, a necessity she openly discussed in 2024 following her hospitalisation for pneumonia.

Legal Troubles and Public Reflection

Retton's arrest has prompted reflection on her wellbeing, but she has taken responsibility for her actions. She entered a no-contest plea to a non-aggravated DUI charge and received a £73 ($100) fine. Through her lawyer, she issued a statement acknowledging her mistake and expressing remorse, stating, 'What happened was completely unacceptable. I make no excuses.'

The footage raises questions about her current state, especially given her reliance on oxygen and the visible signs of distress. It is unclear how her ongoing health issues may have impacted her ability to handle the situation that day. The incident serves as a stark reminder that even those who have achieved great heights can face difficult personal battles.

What This Means for Her Future

Retton's story is no longer just about Olympic glory but also about resilience amid adversity. Her public struggles with health and legal issues highlight the importance of ongoing support and care. While she has acknowledged her mistakes, her wellbeing remains a concern for fans and observers alike. Her experience underscores how fragile health can become, even for those once at the pinnacle of success.

Public Reception

When footage of her arrest was released online, many responded with dismay. 'Leave her alone!' was a common comment on TikTok, with netizens calling for respect for the former Olympian's privacy. 'I don't even want to see this.', one commenter was noted as saying.
Though they were still critical and unsupportive of her actions, many were still sympathetic of her condition, saying 'It's unusual for me to feel sorry for anyone that gets a DUI but I feel so bad for her.'

One notable comment summated a common feeling: 'I love Mary Lou Retton and Im sad to see her going through this. Nobody should be driving under the influence of any narcotics, alcohol, or drugs. Im glad it just ended in an arrest and not an accident. Hopefully she finds the help she needs to get better.'