First lady Jill Biden praised the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Paris, calling it “spectacular” and looking ahead to how the U.S. can similarly impress audiences when the Games are held in Los Angeles in four years. She attended the ceremony along the Seine River, taking photos and meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife before being dazzled by performances from artists like Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, and Aya Nakamura. Despite heavy rain, the show went on, with athletes parading on boats down the river as crowds cheered from the banks and bridges.
Biden expressed confidence in the U.S.’s ability to top Paris’ show in 2028, citing Hollywood’s magic as a key factor. She interacted with hip-hop icon Flavor Flav at a women’s water polo match, both donning red, white, and blue outfits. Flavor Flav, who serves as the hype man for USA Water Polo, made a financial contribution to the women’s program after hearing about athletes’ financial struggles. Biden also attended the men’s gymnastics qualifying round at Bercy Arena, meeting American star Frederick Richard and the team after their performance.
In addition to her sports-related activities, Biden visited the Grand Palais, the venue for fencing, and met with athletes from the U.S. women’s rugby and track and field teams at a training center in the Paris suburbs. She was accompanied by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, as Los Angeles will host the Games in 2028. Biden highlighted the warmth, hospitality, and leadership that will be on display in Los Angeles, promising an experience that will resonate with Olympians and fans alike. The first lady’s presence at the Olympics provided a positive and engaging experience for both the athletes and the spectators.
