Simone Biles selected as closing ceremony flag-bearer
Gymnast Simone Biles has been selected as United States’ flag-bearer for the closing ceremony in Rio, Team USA announced Saturday.
The 19-year-old is coming off a five-medal performance at the Olympic Games. She claimed gold in the team and individual women’s all-around, the vault and floor exercise. Biles also won a bronze in the balance beam.
She has won 18 individual medals in the Olympics and world championships over the last three years.
Biles will be the first female gymnast to ever be a flag-bearer in either the opening or closing ceremony. She was chosen by a vote from other Team USA members.
“It’s an incredible honor to be selected as the flag-bearer by my Team USA teammates,” Biles said. “This experience has been the dream of a lifetime for me and my team and I consider it a privilege to represent my country, the United States Olympic Committee and USA Gymnastics by carrying our flag. I also wish to thank the city of Rio de Janeiro, and the entire country of Brazil, for hosting an incredible Games.”
