One of the most difficult times in my life was when I escaped from Romania in November of 1989.

Hard work has made it easy. That is my secret. That is why I win.

for some people life outside the spotlight is death.

I know how to smile, I know how to laugh, I know how to play. But I know how to do these things only after I have fulfilled my mission.

Of course, most people remember that I received the first perfect 10 in Olympic gymnastics competition.

I worked hard in gymnastics since the time I was six years old until I retired at 23 years of age.

It was good to be a kid because I did not realise all the things that came with the success. Going to the Games, I was asked what I expected to do.