The U.S. Olympic Committee is defending sponsor Ralph Lauren's uniforms for the opening ceremonies at the London Games after it was revealed that American athletes will be wearing clothing manufactured in China, CNN reports.

The controversy erupted this week after reports emerged that the clothing unveiled by the American design company sport "Made in China" labels, generating heated criticism from lawmakers and human rights activists.

"Unlike most Olympic teams around the world, the U.S. Olympic Team is privately funded and we're grateful for the support of our sponsors," USOC spokesman Patrick Sandusky said in a statement.

"We're proud of our partnership with Ralph Lauren, an iconic American company, and excited to watch America's finest athletes compete at the upcoming Games in London."

Dara Torres, a former American Olympic swimmer who won 12 medals in a span of 20 years, said the uniforms looked great but would be even better if they were produced domestically.

"Wearing the U.S. uniform, going out there to represent the United States, it would be nice if it was actually made in the United States," she said.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, told reporters Thursday that "the Olympic committee should be ashamed of themselves."

Ralph Lauren and the USOC were bombarded on Facebook and Twitter by hundreds who demanded the fashion design company manufacture new uniforms in the United States.