Murray named Team GB flag bearer

Murray, who is the first tennis player to carry the flag for Britain, follows in the footsteps of cyclist Chris Hoy, rower Steve Redgrave and judoka Kate Howey in leading Team GB into an opening ceremony.

Wimbledon champion Andy Murray will carry Great Britain's flag in the Rio Games opening ceremony.

Multiple grand slam champion Andy Murray will carry Great Britain's flag for the opening ceremony at Rio 2016, Team GB has confirmed.

Murray was nominated by British Tennis for the role, with cyclist Bradley Wiggins reportedly ruled himself out of the opportunity.

Boxer Nicola Adams was also put forward, but Murray will be given the honour ahead of his attempt to win a second gold medal in the men's singles.

Murray, who is the first tennis player to carry the flag for Britain, follows in the footsteps of cyclist Chris Hoy, rower Steve Redgrave and judoka Kate Howey in leading Team GB into an opening ceremony.

"I am very proud to be selected as the Team GB flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony on Friday," said Murray, who won his second Wimbledon title in July.

"To represent your country at the Games is an unbelievable experience, but to lead out Team GB will be an incredible honour, the biggest in sport.

"This is my third Olympic Games and it is a very special competition for me. I obviously have great memories of London and I am 100 per cent focused on winning here in Rio.

"The privilege of being the flag bearer is a moment I will remember for the rest of my life and will certainly be one of the highlights of my career.

"I hope to do the team proud on Friday and wish all of the British athletes the best of luck for the Games ahead."