Coco Gauff joins LeBron James as flag bearer for Team USA

Field Level Media|published: Wed 24th July, 08:47 2024

Jun 9, 2024; Paris, France; Coco Gauff of the United States returns a shot during the womenís doubles final with Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic against Sara Errani of Italy and Jasmine Paolini of Italy on day 15 of Roland Garros at Stade Roland Garros. Mandatory Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports

Coco Gauff will join LeBron James in carrying the American flag in the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics on Friday in Paris.

The 20-year-old tennis star is the youngest American to serve as a flag bearer. The 39-year-old James was selected as part of the male-female duo earlier this week.

Gauff was selected by a vote of U.S. Olympic team members to lead the United States contingent in the unique ceremony. Athletes will not be introduced in a stadium entrance as is tradition. Instead, the parade of nations will take place with the Olympians riding in boats in a parade down the Seine River.

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

Gauff learned of the honor Wednesday morning. While James is making his fourth appearance in the Olympics, the is Gauff's first experience.

"I never thought in a million years I would have the honor of carrying the American flag for Team USA," Gauff said in a statement. "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."

The No. 2 player in the world, Gauff lost to No. 1 Iga Swiatek of Poland in the semifinals at the French Open in June. The Olympic tournament also will be played on the clay courts at Roland Garros in Paris.

--Field Level Media