Coco Gauff's parents knew she’d be Olympic Flag Bearer before she did: “I have no clue. I wish I knew”
WTA
Coco
Gauff's parents knew she would be the flag bearer at the Olympic Games even
before the 2023 US Open champion herself. The American No. 1 was informed two
days ago that she would represent her country at the opening ceremony of Paris
2024 alongside basketball player LeBron James.
The
20-year-old player recently revealed during a press conference that her
parents, Candi and Corey, knew she would be the flag bearer even before she
did: "They knew the news before me, which, I thought I was gonna surprise
them on the phone, and [my mom] was like, 'Yeah, I already knew,'" Gauff
said.
Gauff's emotional reaction to being named flag bearer
The world
No. 2 will seek a medal for the USA at Stade Roland Garros, where she has
already played a final back in 2022, though she finished as runner-up after
losing to Iga Swiatek, who will be the main favorite in the female draw.
Nonetheless, Gauff will have the support of her parents in Paris, who traveled
to accompany their 20-year-old daughter: “I'm glad that they'll be able to come
and be here. I know they're excited."
Although
Gauff received the news that she would be the flag bearer on July 24, the
United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee informed her family beforehand,
as they needed their names for security purposes before July 23. The presence
of Gauff's parents in Paris was a surprise planned in the last few days: “I was
very emotional when I was talking to my mom about it,” Gauff said.
“I wanted
to cry when I found out, but my whole team was there, so I went in the corner
and did it. I truly am shocked, and I don't take it for granted, and I am going
to try and take it all in, and I know this will be a memory I will remember for
the rest of my life,” she added.
Coco Gauff at Roland Garros.
“I have no
idea what we’re supposed to do,” she said with a laugh at the press conference.
“The only thing I know is the jacket and I only know that because they showed
it to me. I have no clue. I wish I knew!... But I’m sure they’re going to set
me up tomorrow at least, and I’m excited to be on the Seine.”
Read also
Gauff also
mentioned that she is 'a little concerned' about the height difference between
her (5’9’’/1.77 m) and LeBron James (6’9’’/2.06 m). Additionally, Gauff
commented that she is not sure what she has to do as a flag bearer: "Is my
arm going to be up here while he's holding it? I don't know. I thought it was
two separate flags when I was looking at a picture. They hold it together, so I
don't really know," Gauff added.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Having spent weeks and weeks through the years on tour, I can say with confidence that Conchita was (is) one of the very few who realize the surprising level of maturity (and sometimes lack of) which Mirra seems to have developed in such a demanding adult world of Pro-Tennis. While at the same time reminding herself (Conchita, that is) that Mirra is still young and developing mentally and physically. The general public may forget at times, or not at all realize, these modern era young athletes do not have a 'normal' Youth. It's a major sacrifice, among countless sacrifices, these athletes must make. People who blow-off that fact are ignorant and unfair when they blurt out, "They choose fame so they have to put up with the intrusions on their lives". No, they do not.
mandoist05-11-2026 - Okay... someone with a camera was EAVESDROPPING on a private conversation. Shouldn't that be the point of discussion here? Regardless of the sensationalist crap by media, Pegula (and anyone) has a right to an opinion. There used to be an expectation that private conversations were respected, regardless of 'stardom' and whatever other defensive excuses media tries to shove in our faces. Boo-hoo if feelings are hurt. BTW: Having been employed at various tourney venues, etc., I can't tell you how nasty and offensive players can be when discussing their opponents and colleagues... in "private". Well, I could, but won't. I also challenge anyone to deny what Jessica said is false.mandoist05-11-2026
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.mandoist31-10-2026
- Osaka's mental state apparently does not allow her to reach any more Quarter Finals? I mean, she doesn't really have the time for tennis with all the pre-planning that must go into her 12 year-old "fashion" goals.mandoist29-10-2026
- With her money one would think she could afford a better team of Psychiatrists?mandoist29-10-2026
- Boss move, Sinner !Rapunzel27-10-2026
- Apparently still refusing to seek 'help' ...and still playing Dress-Up like a 10 year-old.mandoist27-10-2026
