Olympic Flag Bearer for Paris Games
Tennis star Coco Gauff has been selected as Team USA’s female flag bearer by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committees. She will join NBA superstar, LeBron James, as the American flag bearers and together; they will lead the U.S. delegation on the Seine River for the Summer Games’ opening ceremony Friday.
Proud Achievement
Gauff is the No. 2-ranked women’s tennis player in the world and current U.S. Open champion. She will be making her Olympics debut in Paris. In a statement, she said she “never thought in a million years” she’d have the honor of being a flag bearer for her country — a first for a U.S. tennis player. “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 — at a moment where we can bring athletes and fans together from around the world,” she said.
Selected by Fellow Athletes
Both Gauff and James were chosen by a vote by fellow athletes on Team USA. Friend and tennis player Chris Eubanks nominated Gauff. “I’m incredibly proud of Coco — I know how great she is as a tennis player, but more importantly, how great she is as a person,” Eubanks said in a statement. “I don’t think there is anyone more deserving of this honor and I’m excited to see her carry the flag as she leads our U.S. delegation in the Opening Ceremony.”
Olympic Debut
Singles and doubles competitions begin on July 27 at Roland Garros. In doubles play, Gauff will play with teammate Jessica Pegula.
