US Open champion Coco Gauff has been chosen as the female flag bearer for the United States at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony. She will be joined by four-time NBA champion LeBron James, making a historic pairing for Team USA.
At just 20 years old, Gauff will become the youngest-ever US flag bearer and the first American tennis player to receive this honor. This opportunity comes three years after she missed the Tokyo Olympics due to a positive COVID test.
In a statement, Gauff expressed her excitement: “I never thought in a million years I would have the honour of carrying the American flag for Team USA in the opening ceremony. 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.”
Both Gauff and James were selected by their fellow US athletes through a vote organized by the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC).
Sarah Hirshland, USOPC CEO, praised Gauff’s selection: “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.”
Gauff gained international fame at 15 when she defeated her idol, Venus Williams, in a memorable run to the Wimbledon fourth round. She won her first major title at the US Open last year and is currently ranked world number two in tennis.
Gauff is expected to compete in both the singles and doubles events at the Olympic tennis competition, which begins on July 27 at Roland Garros.
