Share

Obama's golden girls

London - First you're getting a gold medal. Then you're on the phone with the president of the United States.

What a 24 hours.

President Barack Obama spoke to the American gymnasts after they won the gold on Tuesday night. He spoke to each of them - Aly Reisman, Jordyn Wieber, McKayla Maroney, Kyla Ross and Gabby Douglas.

According to the White House, this is what the president said:

- To Reisman: "Michelle and have watched and decided of all the Olympians you guys amaze us the most."

- To Wieber: "I'm so impressed by how you bounced back and led the team. Tell your parents I'm proud of them too. I don't think I could watch if I were them."

- To Maroney: "Way to nail that vault. It was unbelievable."

- To Ross, whom he called "really steady": "I was impressed by how cool you were. I don't know how you do what you do, especially the balance beam."

- To Douglas: "You just tore it up. I know how hard you worked to get there." And, then: "Keep at it. Stay cool."


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE