Gauff joins LeBron as flag-bearers for US at Olympic opening ceremony

Tennis star Coco Gauff will be the woman flag-bearer for the United States at the opening ceremony of the Paris Games, US Olympic chiefs said on Wednesday.

The reigning US Open champion will join NBA superstar LeBron James as the US flag-bearers for Friday’s ceremony along the Seine river.

“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 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, at a moment where we can bring athletes and fans together from around the world.”

The 20-year-old Gauff will be competing at the Olympics for the first time after a breakthrough 12 months which saw her claim her maiden Grand Slam title at the US Open last September.

Gauff has risen to a career-high two in the world rankings and also won her first Grand Slam doubles title at the French Open after partnering Katerina Siniakova from the Czech Republic.

Gauff and James were chosen as flag-bearers after a vote by fellow Team USA members. 

Gauff will play singles while partnering Jessica Pegula in doubles when the Olympic tennis gets under way at Roland Garros on Saturday.

The US youngster was originally selected for the pandemic-delayed 2021 Olympics in Tokyo but did not compete after testing positive for Covid.