Rising American tennis star Coco Gauff has been named the United States of America flag bearer for the Olympics in Paris, alongside LeBron James.
She’ll be the first tennis player to have the honor of being flag bearer for the American team at the Paris Olympics.
“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.”
Gauff and James earned their selections through a vote of their fellow U.S. athletes, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) said.
“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,” USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said.
Coco clinched her maiden major title at the U.S. Open last year. She is expected to compete in both the singles and doubles on the clay courts at Roland Garros, when the Olympic tennis competition begins on July 27.
At the start of the year, Gauff reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open, and she made the fourth round of Wimbledon this month.
Serena Williams was the last American to win Olympic gold in the women’s singles at London 2012.
Gauff was picked alongside Jessica Pegula as part of Team USA’s women’s tennis team.
Friday night’s ceremony will be held on the River Seine and will be the first opening ceremony in summer Olympic history to be held outside the main stadium.
