Delray Beach tennis star Coco Gauff is set to make her Olympics debut as the U.S. flag bearer in the games’ opening ceremony on July 26 in Paris, France.
Gauff, 20, who was unable to compete in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 because of a COVID-19 diagnosis, will represent the country and lead the U.S. tennis team, becoming the first American tennis player and the youngest American ever to carry the flag during the opening ceremony, according to the Olympics’ website.
Accompanying Gauff during the three-and-a-half-hour ceremony is NBA’s No.1 player LeBron James, aka “King James,” who was named U.S. men’s flag bearer earlier this week.
“I never thought in a million years I would have the honor of carrying the American flag for Team USA in the Opening Ceremony,” said Gauff in a statement from the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). “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, who recently won her first Grand Slam doubles title at the French Open with Katerina Siniaková, is the world’s No. 2 player and the reigning US Open women’s singles champion.
For more information, visit olympics.com.
Photo courtesy of 2024 Getty Images