WASHINGTON – Calling the U.S. the “greatest sports nation in the history of the world,” President Joe Biden celebrated U.S. Olympians and Paraolypians at the White House on Monday, honoring their accomplishments in the recent games in Paris.
“Thank you for representing the very best of America,” Biden praised the athletes on the South Lawn, commending them for serving as positive role models for young individuals nationwide. “They see you and they begin to believe in themselves,” he added.
Biden humorously mentioned that he had been following Team USA at the Olympics while attempting to receive national security briefings, jokingly admitting, “In fairness, I had the TV on in the Oval Office as well.”
Recognizing the Olympians who have served in the country’s armed forces, Biden called for increased support for all American athletes.
“We need to do more to support all of our Team USA athletes,” he emphasized.
The president noted that he was unable to attend the Paris games due to potential disruptions caused by his presence, but he eagerly anticipates attending the 2028 Olympic games in Los Angeles when the U.S. takes on the role of host. “I won’t be president then, so they can’t prevent me from going,” he playfully remarked.
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