My Olympic-sized message to Team USA is to embrace the spirit of the games

The moment a Navy football player learns that his sister, the Dominican Republic's Thea LaFond, won gold in the triple jump at the Olympics.

The 9/11 comeback pitch by President George W. Bush galvanized the nation. The emotion on the president’s face, the FDNY jacket he wore to recognize the first responders, and the crowd’s roaring chant of "USA" made that into one of the greatest moments in history. Sports have unified America and promoted patriotism, but most importantly, sports have brought hope back into the hearts of Americans.  

But I was deeply saddened to see that the start of the 2024 Olympics brought division, sacrilegious imagery and even calls by some to boycott the games. After the horrific assassination attempt on President Donald Trump, Americans are desperate for unity, courage and hope, which I was hoping would come from the 2024 Olympic Games. I don’t care if you are rich or poor, White or Black — we are all Americans, and it is time to come together.  

The Olympic Games are tough competition for hard-earned glory, as athletes fought hard to bring their best and compete among the best in the world. Our Olympic athletes have an incredible mantle to uphold. They each fought to bring their country, communities and families the glory of a medal and recognition on the international stage.  

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST GABBY THOMAS REFLECTS ON WEARING THE AMERICAN FLAG AFTER BIG WIN

As a country, we’ve weathered a revolution, a Civil War, two World Wars, and a homeland attack, and yet, we stand strong and tall like the stars and stripes waving in the wind. The strength of our swimmers, the diligence and precision of our gymnasts, and the tenacity of our runners all displayed some of the best American traits.