The news of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) announcing the selection of flag bearers for the Closing Ceremony was made on Thursday, August 8. The event will witness the passing of the summer games baton from Paris to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Olympics. Four-time Olympian and the most decorated American woman in Olympic history, Katie Ledecky, has been chosen as one of Team USA’s flag bearers.

She received the news from Robert Finke and was visibly moved, expressing her gratitude and excitement for the honor. Nick Mead, a history-making member of the first U.S. men’s four rowing team to win Olympic gold since 1960, will also lead Team USA as a flag bearer at the Closing Ceremony. Mead, a two-time Olympian, highlighted the incredible honor of being selected and expressed his joy at sharing this privilege with Katie Ledecky.

Both athletes expressed their pride in representing their country in Paris and their gratitude towards the city of Paris and the entire country of France for hosting an incredible Games. They eagerly await the Closing Ceremony and look forward to cherishing the memories of their experiences at the Paris Games forever.