Coco Gauff will carry the United States flag alongside LeBron James at the opening ceremony for the Olympic Games on Friday.
The world number two was informed of the honor this morning and will become the first US tennis player to perform the duty.
The 20-year-old, who is competing in her first Olympics, said: “I never thought in a million years I would have the honor of carrying the American flag for Team USA in the opening ceremony.
Opening Ceremony flag bearer @CocoGauff checking in from Roland Garros ✌️#ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/7izcbIGbEm
— Team USA (@TeamUSA) July 24, 2024
“I could not be more proud to lead my teammates with LeBron as we showcase our dedication and passion on the biggest stage there is.”
Friday’s ceremony will see a flotilla of boats travel down the River Seine in Paris.
Both Gauff and James were voted to carry the flags by their fellow athletes.
“To be nominated by your teammates for this honor speaks volumes about the way in which Coco approaches her sport and her role as a member of Team USA,’ USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said.
Gauff’s friend and fellow tennis player Christopher Eubanks told Gauff, who won her maiden grand slam crown at last year’s US Open, she had been nominated with the Floridian visibly moved.
Opening Ceremony Flag Bearer @CocoGauff. 🇺🇸
The moment Coco got the news from her teammate @chris_eubanks96… 🫢#ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/yjIWPjm6J1
— Team USA (@TeamUSA) July 24, 2024
