US Olympic legend Michael Johnson expressed his disappointment with the choice of flag bearers on the Olympics Opening Ceremony in Paris on Friday, feeling that extra “conventional” athletes ought to have been chosen. He believed that the choice gave the impression to be extra about reputation somewhat than honoring athletes from conventional Olympic sports activities.
Johnson particularly talked about his hope for seven-time Olympic medalist Simone Biles to have been chosen as a flag bearer, stating, “I hoped for a Simone Biles or an Olympic athlete from a standard Olympic sport. I feel they went for reputation.”
Watch LeBron James’ response to discovering out he shall be Group USA flag bearer
The chosen flag bearers had been tennis phenom Coco Gauff and basketball famous person LeBron James, who braved the rain and wind through the parade of athletes down the Seine River. Johnson’s disappointment appeared to stem from his perception that the choice didn’t characterize the standard essence of the Olympics.
Simone Biles, a extremely adorned Olympic gymnast, was notably absent from the opening ceremony. Her mom, Nellie, defined that Biles wanted to relaxation up for her upcoming competitors on Sunday, the ladies’s qualifier.
Given the bodily demanding nature of the opening ceremony, it was suggested that athletes competing shortly after ought to preserve their vitality and chorus from attending. Because of this, Biles’ teammates Suni Lee, Hezly Rivera, Jordan Chiles, and Jade Carey additionally opted out of the ceremony.
Johnson requires Simone Biles as flag bearer
Johnson‘s feedback make clear the intricacies of athlete participation within the opening ceremony and the concerns that go into choosing flag bearers. Whereas he expressed disappointment within the selection of flag bearers, it is evident that there are numerous elements at play in the case of athletes’ involvement in such ceremonial occasions.
The choice to have Coco Gauff and LeBron James carry the US flag on the opening ceremony might have been influenced by a number of elements, together with their particular person achievements and world recognition. Nonetheless, Johnson’s perspective brings consideration to the stability between honoring conventional Olympic sports activities and acknowledging widespread figures within the sporting world.
In the long run, the choice of flag bearers on the Olympics Opening Ceremony displays a mix of custom, reputation, and logistical concerns. Because the Paris Olympics unfold, the main target will undoubtedly shift to the unimaginable performances and achievements of all collaborating athletes, no matter their involvement within the opening ceremony.
