Team USA takes the lead on Olympic gold medals: #tellusatoday
Last week was filled with close calls and landslides, but mostly gold medal wins. Team USA had a great representation in all sports, especially from Simone Biles in gymnastics and Simone Manuel, Katie Ledecky and Michael Phelps in swimming. While the Simones sparked a debate on race in the Olympics, Phelps announced he would be retiring after these Rio Games. Facebook comment edited for clarity and grammar:
I’m going to say it again, for anyone looking for a bet, Phelps will swim at least one event in 2020.
— Dave Melges
It’s time to end the Olympic Games. The money in the Olympics goes to the top; little trickles down.
— Dan Porath
The truth is that they aren’t just gymnasts. Every athlete represents something pertaining to race, whether they want to or not, and whether we like it or not. We need to discuss it more, given our current state of affairs. I’m not optimistic that talking alone will eradicate racism, but without dialogue we will never have a chance.
— Aderus Iamanidea Milan
Congratulations Phelps! Twenty-three gold medals, what a super record! Enjoy your retirement!
— L.j. Sherwood
I hope we have seen the last of Gabby Douglas. This Biles girl was amazing, a joy to watch, but Douglas had to act like a pouty kid. You had your moment four years ago and what did you do? Kill your endorsements right afterward by playing the race card. Something tells me Biles is a lot smarter than this Black Lives Matter stooge. I hope she has a long and prosperous career.
— Chuck Yanus
Douglas was third in qualifications. Many girls were behind her and two Americans in front of her. She couldn’t compete because of a ridiculous rule, and she deserved to be up there.
— Kevin Jewell
Our followers shared their thoughts on their favorite event so far in the 2016 Olympics. Tweets edited for clarity and grammar:
Best event was Michael Phelps demolishing the 200m — it was a capstone for his career!
— @joshaskvig
Women’s swimming and gymnastics. Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles are two of the greatest of all time, in their prime.
— @ischafer
Kerri Walsh Jennings in beach volleyball. Four surgeries and a mother, she’s what a true champion is.
— @lbridges1212
Love the Olympics! Swimming is my favorite! Countries tie and everyone wins! Team USA with Phelps show America is great, and always has been.
— @cathynel
Wrestling! Traditions that span cultures and the millennia, and one of the original Olympic sports.
— @ShelVogel
For more, follow @USATOpinion or #tellusatoday.