Italian volleyball champion Paola Egonu will carry the Olympic flag at tomorrow’s (23rd July) opening ceremony of the 2020 Games in Tokyo.
The 22-year-old athlete was overjoyed when told. “I find myself representing athletes from all over the world and it is a great responsibility” – said Egonu – “I will parade for every athlete on this planet.”
The president of the northern Veneto region where Egonu plays for Imoco Volley, Luca Zaia, welcomed the news “with joy”.
“Paola is the symbol of the best that sport and contemporary society can present today,” said Zaia, who hailed the athlete as “a courageous woman on and off the court” as well as “an example of perfect integration.”
This is Egonu’s second Olympics following the Rio 2016 Games. Egonu was born in Cittadella to Nigerian parents.
Italy women’s first volleyball match is against ROC (as Russia is known at this Olympics) on July 25th.
Tracksuits designed by Armani
Egonu, like her fellow Italian athletes, will wear tracksuits and jerseys designed by Italian fashion legend Giorgio Armani.
Italy’s Olympic Committee (CONI) described the kit as “unique and elegant,” with the graphics paying “clear homage” to host country Japan.
The style of the Italian tricolour on the front is a not to Japan’s flag. The word Italia is written in a ‘Japanese style’ font.
Also, the Italian national anthem is printed on the inside of the jackets, sweatshirts and collar of the polo shirts.
However, the outfits have not been met with universal appreciation. Many say the logo draws comparison to a pizza.
Meanwhile Rome tennis champion Matteo Berrettini has pulled out of the Tokyo Olympics due to a thigh injury. He played his Wimbledon finals match against Djokovic with heavy strapping.
