Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images, FABRICE COFFRINI/AFPLeader of the free world, meet the leader of the freestyle.
No American seemed immune from the burst of pride that came from Michael Phelps becoming the most decorated Olympian ever (ever!) yesterday, and, rather fittingly, one star-spangled supporter made a bit of a bigger splash than the rest.
And that fan was none other than President Barack Obama.
Not long after the 27-year-old swimmer scored his record and redemptive 19th medal at the 2012 London Olympics—a gold, for anchoring the U.S. Men's 4x200m relay—he took, as always, to Twitter and began both accepting congratulations and issuing thanks. Only to come across a very special message from the commander-in-chief.
"Congrats to Michael Phelps for breaking the all-time medal record," Obama tweeted. "You've made your country proud. -bo"
Hail yeah.
"Thank you Mr. President!!" came Phelps' slightly delayed reply (dang that time difference). "It's an honor representing the #USA!! The best country in the world!!"
The patriotic lovefest may only be beginning. The games, of course, aren't over yet, and as Phelps still has several races left, he could end up thoroughly trouncing the Olympic medal record.
Once again facing off against friendly rival Ryan Lochte, the swimmer is due back in the pool today for both qualifications and, should he make it, the finals of the 200IM tonight, the first of his remaining three events at these, his final Olympic games.