Flag bearers LeBron James and Coco Gauff get suited and booted in Ralph Lauren as they prepare to lead Team USA along the Seine at Olympic opening ceremony in rainy Paris
Team USA arrived in style ahead of their Opening Ceremony appearance along the River Seine in Paris.
As part of one of the most ambitious ceremonies in the history of the games, Team USA will complete a trip on boats down the famous river that cuts through the City of Lights.
Decked out in their special-made and controversial Ralph Lauren outfits, the Olympic athletes of the United States are set to make their way to the Trocadero where a temporary stadium has been built.
Among the athletes getting ready are Coco Gauff and LeBron James, the two flag bearers who have swapped their blue blazers for white coats signifying their responsibilities.
A number of athletes have posted snaps of themselves all decked out and ready for the games – including gold medal winning swimmer Katie Ledecky.
‘I think what’s differnt is always a new experience. A new group guys – some guys have never been Olympians before so you want them to see the whole moment of being here in Paris,’ James told Team USA on the boat.
‘It’s a great opportunity for myself to continue to inspire the next generation and I’m super excited to be here.
‘I’ve been a part of the Athens games, the Beijing games, the London games and now the Paris games, and they’re always special in their own right. It’s 2024 and it’s another special moment, not only for this country of France but also for us other Olympians who are here competing for the United States of America.’
The 20-year-old Gauff was the first American tennis player to carry the flag, three years after she was forced to miss the Tokyo Olympics when she tested positive for Covid.
In a heartwarming clip shared by Team USA on social media, men’s star Chris Eubanks announces that his teammate will be the female flagbearer in Paris to leave her completely stunned.
‘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 US athletes.
The Lakers legend, 39, became the third basketball player — and the first men’s player — to carry the US flag at the start of an Olympics .
Basketball players have been flag bearers for the United States twice in the past – both being women.
