London 2012 Olympics: 10 Best Candidates to Be Team USA Flag-Bearer

Having the privilege of being that flag-bearer for one's country in the parade of nations at the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics is one of the greatest honor an athlete can receive. 

The tradition began at the 1906 Intercalated Games in Athens—a multinational athletic competition much like the Olympics, though one that is no longer recognized by the International Olympic Committee as official Olympic Games.

The first American to bear officially the flag at Summer Olympics was Ralph Rose, who did so in the 1908 Games in London, England. 

Now 104 years later, the tradition is still perpetuated as London prepares to receive the Summer Games for the third time in history. 

As in the past, there is much speculation as to who will get the honor of bearing the US flag this Friday at the opening ceremony. 

If history serves right, the US will most likely again pick someone like Lopez Lomong, whose merits are based on his inspirational story rather than his star appeal, but then again this year could be the first year in recent history when the US picks a well-known heavy hitter to bear the Stars and Stripes. 

Michael Phelps

As the most decorated Olympic athlete in U.S. history, having Michael Phelps as the U.S. flag bearer seems like a no-brainer. 

Other countries like Spain and Russia have chosen their top stars to represent their countries, maybe the U.S. will follow this trend. 

Misty May-Treanor

Already a decorated athlete, Misty May-Treanor, like Phelps, is a household name in the U.S. 

Unlike Phelps, however, the beach volleyball superstar does boast a clean record, making her a great candidate to represent the U.S. 

Kerri Walsh

May-Treanor's partner Kerri Walsh is another possible candidate who could bear the flag this Friday. 

Together the two women have been undefeated in the past two Summer Games—their unbeaten streak totaling 108 matches. What better way to recognize this accomplishment than to have either of these women bear the flag? 

Ryan Lochte

The casual sports fan may not know who Ryan Lochte is, but by the end of these Summer Games his name might be as popular as Michael Phelps'. 

Swimming enthusiasts are expecting Ryan Lochte to give fellow teammate Michael Phelps his most daunting competition this summer. What better way to get the rivalry between these two men heated up than by giving Lochte, an outstanding athlete in his own right, the honor to bear the flag. 

Justin Gatlin

Making his return to the track after being sanctioned for testing positive to banned substance, Justin Gatlin may have what it takes to bear the U.S. flag. 

His past actions may have stained his reputation, but now that all is forgiven and forgotten after his four-year ban, Gatlin may be the inspirational story we have been looking for—provided he's apologetic about his past. 

Missy Franklin

Drawing praise from athletes like Michael Phelps, who reportedly called her "a stud," (via NBC Olympics) Missy Franklin, at only 17 years old, is not only one of the youngest competitors on the U.S. Olympic team, but also one from whom much is expected.

The young swimmer may not have the star potential other members of this list have, but what she does have is great charisma and the chance to carve her name in  U.S. Olympic history this summer. 

Gabrielle Douglas

The 16-year-old Gabrielle Douglas, may seem too young to represent her country by bearing its flag, but she is already on her way to making history. An individual medal for Douglas would be significant—making the Virginia Beach native the first African-American woman to reach the Olympic podium since Dominique Dawes. 

Jose Ramirez

The "barista-turned-boxer," (via go.ESPN.com) Jose Ramirez has already earned 11 national titles and six consecutive USA Boxing National gold medals and is on his way to becoming a huge boxing superstar within the next few years. 

This amateur boxer has everything it takes to be the next Golden Boy, and giving him the flag would be a stepping stone until he is internationally recognized. 

Jessica Hardy

Long Beach native Jessica Hardy features that classic "girl next door" look as well as the athletic ability to make a huge splash in the pool. 

Holder of three world records and the hearts of young boys across America, she may have just what it takes to proudly wave Ol' Glory at the opening ceremony. 

LeBron James

Fresh off of winning his first NBA title, LeBron James is not only an international superstar but a powerful leader on the court. 

Team USA Basketball may not have an official captain, but the Heat's star certainly seems to have fit that role not only in the past couple of games, but in his career as an Olympic athlete as well. 

America may not have royalty, but James still stands as king and would be a great candidate to bear the U.S. flag.

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