THE 2024 Paris Olympics have kicked off in a memorable fashion.
On Friday, Athletes from around the globe participated in the rain-soaked Parade of Nations on Paris’ Seine River.
Coco Gauff and LeBron James were the flag bearers for Team USA in ParisCredit: Instagram/cocogauff
Athletes took to the dedicated Team USA boat in their sleek Ralph Lauren-designed outfitsCredit: NBC
Throughout the opening ceremony, athletes were drenched as the skies opened above the French capitalCredit: Splash
Leading the way for Team USA, who were one of the few teams to have their own boat.
Athletes, including flag bearers LeBron James and Coco Gauff, were decked out in their Ralph Lauren-designed outfits.
Designed to draw “inspiration from the dynamic and vibrant host city of Paris and the rich heritage of Olympic and Paralympic sport,” the ensembles sought to embrace “a patriotic spirit reflected in a signature palette of red, white and blue,” as per a statement.
These outfits included a “tailored single-breasted wool blazer with red and white tipping and a striped oxford shirt.”
Athletes also wore sleek tapered jeans and finished the look with suede buck shoes.
NBA icon James and US Open champion Gauff, however, wore custom white jackets.
“It means a lot to me to represent Team USA and be with the goat here, LeBron James,” Gauff told NBC Sports of what it meant to be the flag bearer.
“It means a lot. I’m so excited. I can’t wait to do well in the games.”
James was equally humbled by the experience, which he called “an honor.”
“It goes back all the way to my hometown. To all our communities.
“For myself and Coco to be able to represent our countries, us being Black kids as well representing our culture and where we come from, it gives everyone so much hope where we come from.
“That’s all we can ask for. We take it with the utmost responsibility and honor.”
Unfortunately, thanks to the rain, many of the athletes opted to don plastic ponchos.
But the wet weather and choppy waters seemingly weren’t enough to dampen anybody’s spirits.
For example, as the sun began to set and the Team USA boat passed the Eiffel Tower, both James and Gauff were captured by tennis star Chris Eubanks filming selfies in front of the iconic landmark as rain continued to pour.
Both could be heard saying “We made it!”
As is usually the case, the opening ceremony had somewhat of a party atmosphere among the athletes.
Snaps and clips from onboard the US’ boat showed athletes taking photos together, waving their flags, with some also wearing Olympic ring sunglasses.
One athlete to add their own unique twist to their ensemble was sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson.
Feeling patriotic, she showed off her stunning USA-inspired nails.
Fellow sprinter Noah Lyles also added to his look with a golden Olympic rings necklace and the word “Icon” painted onto his nails.
“I love seeing moments made,” a reflective Lyles told NBC Sports of their experience on the boat.
“That’s what I like to do as a performer and just seeing all the Olympians, knowing how much care and hard work went into this.
“We didn’t get to experience any of this in 2021, so this is a moment I want to enjoy. [Los Angeles 2028] is not promised so take it in now.”
Along with the usual flag waving and cheering, athletes also took the opportunity to get to know one another.
NBA star Steph Curry, who could be seen holding a disposable film camera, was captured swapping custom pins with teammates.
Now with the ceremony done, and the unique floating Olympic cauldron lit, attention will turn to the events.
All in all, 22 sports will see action on Saturday, including artistic gymnastics, basketball, soccer, and swimming.
Athletes, including Tara Davis-Woodhall, could be seen wearing Olympic rings sunglasses, while others such as Steph Curry waved US flagsCredit: AP
Sha’Carri Richardson added to her ensemble with an amazing set of red, white, and blue nailsCredit: Getty
Noah Lyles had the word ‘Icon’ painted on his nailsCredit: NBC
Both James and Gauff captured the moment they passed the Eiffel TowerCredit: Instagram/chris_eubanks96
