This was Katie Ledecky’s reaction to being named Team USA flag bearer for 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony
Having written her name into the history books of her country and the Olympic games, it’s not surprising that the American has been granted such an honor.
As one of the most decorated female swimmers in history, the American is no stranger to success but there are some forms of recognition that go way beyond medals, records, and titles. Indeed, that is something that Katie Ledecky now fully appreciates and she made that clear.
Katie Ledecky to be Team USA’s flag bearer in Olympic closing ceremony
According to reports, Katie Ledecky received the biggest honor of her life so far and surprisingly, it was not confirmation of a new world record or the addition of another medal to her already extensive collection. On Thursday, Ledecky got a Facetime call from her USA swimming teammate, Bobby Finke, who contacted her to inform her that she had been chosen as one of the flag bearers for the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics on Sunday.
Understandably, Ledecky was stunned and remained speechless as tears began to run down her cheek, finally uttering the word “Oh!” The 27-year-old later received her jacket while attending the open-water swimming, at which point she proceeded to give a message to Team USA. “Thank you Team USA,” Ledecky said while holding back tears. “This is a huge honor. Can’t wait for the closing ceremonies and it’s been an honor representing our country here in Paris. I’m so proud to be a part of this team.”
Regarding the details of it all, Ledecky is now set to hold the American flag alongside gold-medal-winning rower Nick Mead. The men’s rowing four team won gold for the first time in more 60 years which is to say, Mead is a fitting choice. Where Ledecky is concerned, it would be fair to say that her Olympic campaign in Paris was a success as she leaves with two gold, one silver, and one bronze medal. Across the four Olympic Games in which she has participated, Ledecky has won a total of 14 medals, nine of which are gold medals. To be clear, the nine-time Olympic gold medal winner is tied for the most by a woman in Olympic history.