Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn't go hand-in-hand with financial success.
Mary Lou Retton

You give up your childhood. You miss proms and games and high-school events, and people say it's awful... I say it was a good trade. You miss something but I think I gained more than I lost.
Mary Lou Retton

As simple as it sounds, we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices, by making the most of the talents we've been given.
Mary Lou Retton

I usually don't mind giving autographs, but when hundreds of folks with paper and pen start coming at you, it's time to seek shelter.
Mary Lou Retton

Be cocky. Walk into the Georgia Dome like you own it.
Mary Lou Retton

Many medal winners dream of competing in a sport other than the one they're famous for.
Mary Lou Retton

Getting to know athletes from all over the planet is a big part of the Olympic experience.
Mary Lou Retton