‘Hello, Team USA!’: Obama Delivers Video Message to U.S. Olympic Athletes in Sochi

'You inspire us': Obama shares message for Olympians exclusively with TODAY (NBC News)

In a statement shared exclusively with TODAY, the president offered his well wishes to Team USA:

"Hello Team USA, I just want to say congratulations and good luck to everyone representing the red, white, and blue at the Winter Olympics and Paralympic games this year. We couldn't be prouder of you and we can't wait to see what you accomplish in the next few weeks.

But we're also proud of everything you've done to get this far. You have worked tirelessly, practicing day after day for years to become some of the finest athletes in the world. You excelled at the very highest levels of competition. Bring out your "A" game when it matters most. Competing with vigor and winning with grace. You've dedicated yourselves to the Olympic values of friendship, respect, and excellence in your sport and in your lives.

So you inspire us. We're going to be watching and we're going to be rooting for you. So on behalf of all your fans around the country including everybody in the Obama family. Good luck and go Team USA."

First lady Michelle Obama also noted the beginning of the Olympics.