Source: Today.com
Quick Summary
- Flag Bearers: Coco Gauff and LeBron James
- Event: Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris
- Date: July 26, 2024
Coco Gauff’s Reaction and Nomination
Tennis star Coco Gauff expressed her surprise and gratitude upon being chosen as one of the flag bearers for Team USA. She was nominated by teammate and friend Chris Eubanks during a speech at a team photo session.
“I was completely shocked. (It) never would’ve crossed my mind. I have no words, honestly,” Gauff said. She added, “It made me cry yesterday. When Chris told me, I was holding it in, but when I called my mom, I started crying because… so many incredible people just think that I am worthy of this. It means a lot, truly.”
Selection Process
Gauff and James were selected by a vote of fellow Team USA athletes, a process led by the Team USA Athletes’ Commission. This makes Gauff the first U.S. tennis player to serve as a flag bearer for Team USA. Despite never having met James, Gauff shared that he had previously sent her words of encouragement on social media.
Gauff’s Olympic Debut
Gauff, currently the No. 2 women’s tennis player in the world, will make her Olympic debut in Paris after having to withdraw from the Tokyo Games in 2021 due to COVID-19. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “It’s crazy how some of the darkest moments in your life can prep you for the biggest one. And not only am I here, playing my first Olympics, I have the honor to be the flag bearer, which is something I never thought in my lifetime.”
LeBron James’ Fourth Olympics
LeBron James, nominated by the men’s Olympic basketball team and teammate Steph Curry, will be playing in his fourth Games. James, who has previously won a bronze medal in 2004 and gold medals in 2008 and 2012, expressed his honor and responsibility in representing the United States.
“It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together,” James said. “For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with big aspirations.”
Leadership and Inspiration
Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, emphasized the importance of the selections: “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. I’m thrilled for her to start her Olympic journey here in Paris and, with LeBron, to lead Team USA and inspire fans around United States and the world on Friday night.”