First Lady Michelle Obama Finds Inspiration In Serena Williams & Queen Elizabeth II At The Olympics

Michelle Obama was on hand to root for tennis star Serena Williams at the 2012 Olympics in London on Saturday, and the First Lady was impressed with what she saw.

“She is so good. So much fun to watch,” the First Lady told Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush of Williams’ performance, during an exclusive interview at the Wimbledon courts on Saturday.

Not only is Williams entertaining, but Mrs. Obama said her humble beginnings and extreme dedication to her craft make her an ideal role model for American youth.

“That’s what young people need to see — putting in that kind of work, that kind of discipline and mental and emotional toughness. So much fun to watch her,” she told Bush. “And she’s happy and she looks healthier than ever.”

Another woman whose grace has left an indelible mark on Mrs. Obama is none other than Queen Elizabeth II, whom the First Lady praised.

“She’s a wonderful person [and a] tremendous leader,” she told Bush of the Queen. “Whenever I get tired, I just think about what she has done her entire life and what she means to the people of Great Britain.”

The First Lady, who cheered on the over 500 athletes of Team USA during Friday’s Opening Ceremony, said she always feels welcomed by the English.

“Our relationship with the UK is beyond my time. It’s a solid important alliance and the people are so welcoming — especially during this time,” she said. “Everyone here is so proud and so energetic about being the host of these games, so I enjoy my visits… it’s always a treat to be here.”

As for her husband, Mrs. Obama said the President missed the Opening Ceremony (as he was in flight at the time), but he’ll definitely be tuning in to the games as often as possible.

“Yeah, he’s a sports junkie — he watches anything,” she said with a laugh, when asked if the President will be watching the games. “So [the Olympics are] just like a smorgasbord of reasons to watch sports. So, he’s focused.”