Critics have said that the song was powerful and uplifting but received mixed reviews. Daniel Kreps from "Rolling Stone" called producer Max Martin an "extraordinaire," while Brandon Caldwell from the "Houston Press" said that the song "just doesn’t fit the template of inspirational, fiery and get America ready to beat the rest of the world in sporting competitions. It just doesn’t fit the Olympics. Now, in terms of beating world issues? 'Rise' may have something there."