Belá Károlyi, the coach behind USA Gymnastics’ rise to global prominence, passes away at age 82

Renowned gymnastics coach Bela Karolyi passed away at age 82, as confirmed by USA Gymnastics. Along with his wife Márta, Bela played a pivotal role in establishing the United States as a gymnastics powerhouse from the 1980s through the 2010s. Bela and Márta coached numerous gymnasts, including Mary Lou Retton, Dominique Dawes, and Simone Biles, leading them to international success and numerous Olympic medals. Karolyi’s coaching style was known for being intense and demanding, but he also had a nurturing side, as described by former gymnasts who trained under him. The couple defected from Romania in 1981 and settled in Houston, where they set up a gym that attracted aspiring gymnasts from across the country. Bela served as the national team coordinator, while Márta took on many leadership roles, guiding American gymnasts to victory on the world stage. The Karolyis’ legacy was tarnished by their association with former team doctor Larry Nassar, who was convicted of abusing young gymnasts under the guise of medical treatment. USA Gymnastics ultimately cut ties with the Karolyi Ranch, where many gymnasts trained, in the wake of the abuse scandal. Despite this dark chapter, Bela Karolyi is remembered as a transformative figure in the sport of gymnastics, leaving behind a lasting impact on the athletes he mentored.

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