First Lady Jill Biden commended the extraordinary Olympics opening ceremony in Paris and discussed how the U.S. could impress spectators at the upcoming Games in Los Angeles in four years, pointing to the influence of Hollywood. Biden, heading the U.S. presidential delegation at the Olympics, captured moments at the event along the Seine River on Friday before meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte. The ceremony featured performances by Celine Dion, Lady Gaga, and Aya Nakamura, intertwined with French charm, set against iconic Parisian landmarks, including a hot air balloon carrying flames near the Eiffel Tower, despite the persistent rain that soaked the athletes and spectators.
Despite the weather, Biden emphasized that “the rain did not dampen our spirits” and contemplated how the U.S. could outshine the spectacle in 2028. She highlighted Hollywood’s enchanting aura, known for making dreams a reality, as a key factor for an impressive show. Traveling to Paris with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Biden expressed confidence that the 2028 Games in LA will reflect American warmth, hospitality, and experience, as well as the city’s third time hosting the Olympics, with the last being in 1984.
Moreover, Biden observed the men’s gymnastics qualifying round at Bercy Arena, complimenting American gymnast Frederick Richard’s performance and meeting with the team, who secured a second-place finish in their subdivision. Richard expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet the first lady and highlighted the significance of her presence in the audience. Biden also attended women’s water polo and visited the Grand Palais, where fencing events were taking place. Earlier in the week, she met with U.S. women’s rugby and track and field teams at a training center in Paris’s suburbs.
Additionally, Biden was set to participate in an event focused on advancing women’s sports and health innovation. Amidst these activities, AP National Writer Will Graves contributed reporting from Paris.
