WATCH: Auburn alum Sunisa Lee throws fist pumps as fans shout “War Eagle” during 2024 Paris Olympics

Auburn Tigers alum Sunisa Lee and Team USA won their first Olympic gold in artistic gymnastics since 2016 at the 2024 Paris Games on Tuesday. Lee, Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey finished with an impressive score of 171.296, while Italy came in second and Brazil in third.

While Sunisa Lee was on the mat, refreshing herself by drinking water, a fan cheered for her loudly and said, "War Eagle." She responded to this gesture with fist pumps. Watch Lee's reaction:

The "War Eagle" battle cry dates back to the first football matchup between Auburn and Georgia in 1892. A Civil War veteran in the stands had a pet eagle that he had found on the battlefield. During the game, the eagle broke free and began circling the field, which was seen as a sign of success for the Tigers.

Elated by Auburn's victory, the fans and students started chanting 'War Eagle' to the team. The 'War Eagle' chant has been part of Auburn's spirit for over 100 years. It has become a symbol of the proud Auburn spirit, with the chant heard whenever Auburn people gather.

Sunisa Lee had retired from Auburn gymnastics, citing health issues

Sunisa Lee, a gold medalist in the 2020 Olympics, announced that she was bidding farewell to Auburn Gymnastics due to health issues involving her kidneys in April 2023. She made the announcement last year on X and expressed her pride in the team and their determination and resilience.

She also thanked the Auburn community for the best two years of her life and the opportunity to make history with her team.

"I have been dealing with a non-gymnastics health related issue involving my kidneys. For my safety, the medical team did not clear me to train and compete over the last few weeks. I am blessed and thankful to be working with the best specialized medical team to treat and manage my diagnosis. My focus at this time is my health and recovery.

"It's been challenging to end my Auburn career early, but I am thankful for all of the love & support. I will not stop pursuing my dreams for a bid to Paris in 2024. In fact, this experience has sharpened my vision for the future," she said.

Sunisa Lee helped the Auburn Tigers to the Final Four as a freshman in 2022 and was the national champion during the same season. She left the Tigers as one of the most impactful gymnasts in the program's history.