A huge basketball enthusiast, Gauff will carry the flag alongside basketball icon LeBron James during Friday’s procession on the Seine in Paris, NBC News reports. The two athletes are at very different stages in their careers—when Gauff was born in 2004, James had already played 62 NBA games for the Cleveland Cavaliers, having been drafted a year earlier.
“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 expressed in a Team USA 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 was selected for this honor through a vote by her fellow Team USA athletes and was nominated by her tennis teammate and close friend Chris Eubanks. “I’m incredibly proud of Coco — I know how great she is as a tennis player, but more importantly, how great she is as a person,” Eubanks said. “I don’t think there is anyone more deserving of this honor.”
Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, remarked, “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.”
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