Nick Mead, Olympic gold medalist in the men’s four, served as the U.S. flag bearer for the Closing Ceremonies of the Paris Olympic Games alongside four-time Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky. The pair was selected by a vote of fellow Team USA athletes lead by the Team USA Athletes’ Commission, which serves as the representative group and voice of Team USA Athletes. This is the first time the U.S. has had two flag bearers for the Closing Ceremony.
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Mead was a member of the U.S. men’s four that won gold in Paris, alongside teammates Justin Best, Michael Gracy and Liam Corrigan. The crew, which trained together for two years and finished second in last year’s world championships, brought home the U.S.’s first medal in the event since 1960.
“It is an incredible honor to be selected as the flag bearer, and to represent the United States and the sport of rowing, which has never had an American flag bearer in the history of the Olympics. To share this privilege with Katie makes it all the more special,” Nick Mead said. “My experience at the Paris Games has been the dream of a lifetime and I’m filled with immense pride, gratitude and joy. I also wish to thank the city of Paris, and the entire country of France, for hosting an incredible Games. I’ll cherish these memories forever.”
Katie Ledecky became the most decorated U.S. women’s Olympian of all time in Paris, adding four medals to her total of 14. She won her ninth gold in Paris, tying her for the most gold medals won by a woman from any country. Ledecky won her first Olympic Games in 2012 when she was only 15 years old and
USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said, “The Paris 2024 Games have been nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing stunning performances and creating historic moments. Katie and Nick have significantly contributed to the joyous and celebratory atmosphere.”
Team USA flagbearers Katie Ledecky and Nick Mead take us inside the Closing Ceremony with Mike Tirico and Jimmy Fallon.
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— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 11, 2024
