Mckayla Maroney

McKayla Rose Maroney was born on December 9, 1995, in Aliso Viejo, California, to Mike and Erin Maroney. She was homeschooled to accommodate her rigorous training schedule as an elite gymnast. Maroney began her senior gymnastics career in 2011, making an immediate impact at the world championships where she secured gold medals in both the team and vault competitions. Her early career showcased exceptional talent, leading to her selection for the 2012 U.S. Olympic team. At the London Olympics, she was a crucial member of the ‘Fierce Five’ team, contributing to their gold medal victory. She also earned an individual silver medal in the vault competition, an event where a photograph of her ‘not impressed’ expression on the podium became a global internet meme.

Following her Olympic success, Maroney continued to achieve in gymnastics despite facing various injuries. In 2013, she successfully defended her World Championship vault title, becoming the first U.S. female gymnast to do so. This period also saw her venturing into acting, making her debut in the series “Hart of Dixie” in late 2012. Her career included appearances in other television shows like “Bones” and “Superstore.” She officially retired from competitive gymnastics in 2016 due to recurring health issues, including depression and burnout, which she discussed in a 2016 podcast.

In her post-gymnastics career, Maroney pursued music, releasing her first single “Wake Up Call” in 2020. She also became a public advocate, sharing her experiences as a survivor in the Larry Nassar sexual abuse case, drawing attention to systemic issues within USA Gymnastics. Her courage in speaking out, along with other survivors, earned them the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 2018. Maroney has also engaged in brand partnerships, leveraging her public recognition.