Joe Biden/ U.S. Olympians/ White House/ Team USA celebration/ Paris Olympics 2024/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Joe Biden honored U.S. Olympians and Paralympians at the White House, praising them as the “very best of America” after their success at the Paris Games. He highlighted their inspiration to young people and called for more support for athletes. Biden also joked about missing the Games but looks forward to attending the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Olympians at White House: Quick Looks
- Event: President Biden welcomed Team USA Olympians and Paralympians on the South Lawn.
- Praise: Biden lauded the athletes for representing America’s best and inspiring young people nationwide.
- Support for Athletes: The president emphasized the need for greater support for U.S. athletes.
- 2028 Olympics: Biden joked about attending the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, even if he’s no longer president.
Olympians Honored by Biden: ‘The Very Best of America’
Deep Look
President Joe Biden celebrated the achievements of U.S. Olympians and Paralympians at a special event on the South Lawn of the White House on Monday. In his address, Biden declared the United States “the greatest sports nation in the history of the world” and thanked the athletes for representing the nation with pride and excellence during this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris.
“Thank you for representing the very best of America,” Biden said, emphasizing the inspiration these athletes provide for young people across the country. He highlighted how their determination, resilience, and sportsmanship set an example for others to follow, saying, “They see you, and they begin to believe in themselves.”
The event was marked by light-hearted moments, as Biden quipped about how his staff couldn’t resist watching Team USA’s performances during the Games, even when he was receiving important national security briefings. “In fairness, I had the TV on in the Oval Office as well,” he joked, noting the excitement surrounding the athletes’ performances.
Recognition of Service Members
Biden took a moment to specifically acknowledge the Olympians and Paralympians who also serve in the U.S. armed forces. Their dedication to both their country and their sport was highlighted as an example of the unique contributions they bring to the world stage. The president also called for increased support for all of America’s athletes, stressing the importance of ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed.
“We need to do more to support all of our Team USA athletes,” Biden urged, signaling his administration’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s support for its athletes on the global stage.
Looking Ahead to 2028 Olympics
While Biden wasn’t able to attend the Paris Games due to the logistical disruptions his presence would cause, he shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games, which will be hosted in Los Angeles. With a grin, Biden joked that by then, no one could stop him from attending, adding, “I won’t be president, they can’t stop me from going there then.”
The president’s lighthearted remarks and heartfelt recognition of the athletes underscored his pride in Team USA’s achievements. He concluded the event by reiterating his gratitude for the athletes’ hard work, dedication, and the honor they’ve brought to the country, making them shining examples of the “very best” of America.
