Olympics legend Michael Johnson questions why Coco Gauff was named Team USA’s flagbearer in Paris

Four-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson has doubts about Team USA’s decision to appoint Coco Gauff as flag bearer.

The tennis star joined LeBron James at the head of Team USA’s opening ceremony boat on Friday night to hold the flag as they sailed down the Seine.

Gauff is the reigning US Open champion and a contender for the women’s tennis gold medal in Paris.

But Johnson questioned whether she was the best choice to be the face of Team USA because of the sport she plays.

The 56-year-old athlete, who won gold at the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympics, believes the honor should have gone to another athlete.

The tennis star joined LeBron James at the head of Team USA’s opening ceremony boat

Johnson told the BBC: ‘I’m a little disappointed with the choice of the US team.

“I was hoping for a Simone Biles or an Olympic athlete from a traditional Olympic sport. I think they were going for popularity.

Unless Simone said she didn’t want to [because she has to get ready for her competition]. That is a possibility.’

Gauff is the youngest flag bearer for her country at the Summer Olympics and the first tennis player to receive this honor.

Biles skipped Friday night’s opening ceremony as she prepares for the start of the gymnastics competition on Sunday.

Simone Biles was a contender, but she skipped the ceremony to focus on her gymnastics

Her parents – Ronald and Nellie Biles – were quick to explain her absence during an interview with NBC News Hoda Kotb And Snoop Dogg.

“The first race is Sunday,” Nellie explained, “and that’s the Women’s Qualifier. And of course she has to rest for that race.”

The 27-year-old was advised to skip the lengthy meeting, along with her teammates Suni Lee, Hezly Rivera, Jordan Chiles and Jade Carey.

Nellie added: “She’s feeling really good. I spoke to her this morning and she’s doing great. She’s just in a really good place.”