BEIJING — President Bush said today the Beijing Olympics exceeded his expectations, calling them a "very uplifting experience" that he won't forget.

"The whole thing is genuine," Bush said in a short interview today with The Associated Press before returning to Washington at the end of his weeklong Asia trip. "That's the good thing about the Olympics. It's been a lot of fun."

He also said his attendance, which has been criticized by human-rights activists as an endorsement of China's repression of free expression, was important.

"It's good to send a signal to the Chinese people that we respect them, that this is about their country," Bush said.

The president, watching as players whacked line drives around during a practice baseball game between the U.S. and China, said the best part for him was getting his photo taken with several teams.

"They were so gracious and grateful and excited," Bush said. "It's just a very energetic feeling. They represent the best of USA athletics. They're full of hope."

He said he likes the Olympic venues, calling them fan-friendly. The crowds were a very international mix, meaning a large number of people have come to China to cheer for competitors from around the world.