The most dominant judoka in the world will be France’s flag bearer for the Rio Olympic Opening Ceremony next week.
Teddy Riner was awarded the honor Sunday, after the conclusion of the Tour de France in Paris.
“It’s a great honor, a great pride to have been elected by my peers,” Riner said. “Now, the Olympic dream begins. I want everyone to take pleasure, give their all and bring a lot of medals.”
Riner was reportedly given the distinction over basketball star Tony Parker and pole vaulter Renaud Lavillenie, a world record holder and defending gold medalist.