U.S. President George W. Bush(second row R2) and his wife Laura Bush(second row L2), Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd (third row R1) watch swimming competition of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games at National Aquatics Center in Beijing, China, August 10, 2008. (Xinhua/Wang Dingchang) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President George W. Bush came to the Water Cube Sunday morning to assist the American swimmers in fighting for Olympic gold medals.

    Donning a sky blue blouse, Bush watched intently when U.S. swim prodigy Michael Phelps began his unprecedented eight-gold quest in men's 400 individual medley final. He stood up in cheers when Phelps started his final charge with the freestyle, waving an American national flag.

    Bush's presence obviously cheered Phelps up.

    "To have president coming watch is pretty cool. I looked up and saw him waving the flag. That's pretty cool to have the President say congratulations," said Phelps, who won his first gold in Beijing with a new world record.

    Bush was accompanied by first Lady Laura Bush and daughter Barbara Bush.

    Another top U.S. gold hopeful Katie Hoff failed to present a golden performance, trailing behind Australia swimmer Stephanie Rice and Zimbabwean veteran Kirsty Conventry in the women's 400m individual medley.

Michael Phelps of America celebrates victory after the men's 400m individual medley final of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games at National Aquatics Center in Beijing, China, August 10, 2008. Michael Phelps won in a world record time of 4:03.84. (Xinhua/Ding Xu) Photo Gallery>>>