US Open champion and women’s world No. 2 tennis player Coco Gauff has been selected as Team USA’s female flag bearer for the Paris Olympic Games Opening Ceremony.
According to CNN Sports, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced on Wednesday.
Gauff will stand alongside male flag bearer and three-time Olympian LeBron James during Friday’s ceremony, which will uniquely take place along the River Seine, marking the first time the event has not been held inside a stadium.
“I never thought in a million years I would have the honour of carrying the American flag for Team USA in the Opening Ceremony,” Gauff expressed 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.”
Gauff is making her Olympic debut, having missed the Tokyo 2020 Games due to a positive Covid-19 test.
At 20 years old, she is the first US tennis player to be a Team USA flag bearer.
The tennis singles and doubles competitions are set to start Saturday at Roland Garros, the venue for the French Open.
Gauff will team up with Jessica Pegula in the doubles.
This year’s Parade of Nations will be held on the water, with boats carrying 10,500 athletes through the heart of Paris, a departure from the traditional stadium walk.
The ceremony kicks off at 1:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on NBC.
