Tennis phenom chosen as female flag bearer for US Olympic team

Earlier this week, it was announced that NBA superstar LeBron James would be the male flag bearer for the U.S. Olympic team in Paris during Friday’s opening ceremony. On Wednesday, the team found their woman. Coco Gauff has been selected as the female flag bearer and will join James in carrying the U.S. flag.

Cori Dionne “Coco” Gauff is the first tennis player ever selected to carry the U.S. flag during an Olympic opening ceremony, the Associated Press reported. At only 20 years old, she is the defending U.S. Open champion and has already won seven singles and nine doubles titles. In Paris, she will be making her Olympic debut. Gauff made her professional tennis debut in 2019 at the age of 15.

“I never thought in a million years I would have the honor of carrying the American flag for Team USA in the opening ceremony,” 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.”

Like James, Gauff was chosen in a vote among other U.S. Olympians, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee said. Fellow NBA superstar Stephen Curry nominated James. 

Sarah Hirshland, USOPC CEO, reflected on the honor of being chosen by an athlete’s peers to carry the flag at the Olympics.

“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,” Hirshland said.

Earlier this year, the tennis superstar commented on participating in the Olympics. She was enthusiastic about the potential opportunity to do so, comparing it to competing in one of professional tennis’s prestigious competitions.

“I mean, for me, the Olympics is a top priority. I would say equal to the Grand Slams. I wouldn’t put it above or below, just because I’ve never played before. This is my first time,” Gauff said. “Obviously, I always want to do well, try to get a medal.”