Paris 2024 Olympics: Rudy Gobert admits it’s ‘impossible’ to be the flag bearer this year

French basketball player Rudy Gobert, who dreamed of being a flag bearer at the Paris Olympics (July 26-August 11), will ultimately not put forward his candidacy due to unfavorable scheduling, he explained to AFP. “I’ve always dreamed of being a flag bearer, it would be an incredible honor, but the Olympic calendar probably won’t allow it,” says Gobert, 31, after considering applying.

“We have a match in Lille the day after the opening ceremony (July 26). As a flag bearer, I had to arrive at Lille very late in the evening the day before the match, when my priority was really to be as good as possible on the pitch with my team. It would be an honor, but this year it will definitely not be possible. »

The giant (2.16 m) is currently participating in the NBA playoffs with Minnesota. With an impressive 4-0 win over Phoenix in the first round, the Timberwolves are among the title favorites. Gobert and his teammates will face defending champion Denver in the Western Conference semifinals starting Saturday, less than three months before the Games, where a key player and 2021 Olympic runner-up will aim for gold with the Blues “

“Today I am really focused on the present moment, this is the best way to prepare for the Olympics. Strangely enough, it is both close and far,” he adds.