Mary Lou Retton, the 57-year-old Olympic legend, has spoken out for the first time after her DUI arrest in West Virginia last month.
## What happened?
Retton was stopped in Marion County on May 17 and charged with one misdemeanor count of "driving under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs."
She was released later that day after posting a $1,500 bond.
## Why it matters for Mary Lou Retton
The incident occurred just months after Retton survived a life-threatening battle with pneumonia in October 2023, which required nearly two weeks in the intensive care unit.
Retton has remained an iconic figure in American sports history, becoming the first American woman to win the individual all-around gold medal in gymnastics at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.
## What comes next?
On Tuesday, Retton's attorney Edmund J. Rollo issued a statement confirming that Retton pleaded no contest to a non-aggravated DUI charge and accepted full responsibility without seeking any special treatment.
Retton expressed deep regret and a commitment to growth, saying "I take full responsibility for my actions. What happened was completely unacceptable. I make no excuses."
She also stated, "To my family, friends and my fans: I have let you down, and for that I am deeply sorry."
Retton was fined $100, consistent with sentencing guidelines for first-time, non-aggravated offenses in this jurisdiction.
And she is determined to learn and grow from this experience.
But the road to recovery will be challenging.
So Retton is focusing on making positive changes in her life.
Retton's attorney said she "is grateful for the professionalism of law enforcement and the court system, and she fully respects the outcome."
Retton has asked for privacy as she moves forward with her personal and professional life.
At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Retton earned a series of perfect 10s and took home two silver medals and two bronze medals.
She was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997.
Retton also appeared on season 27 of ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" in 2018.