The 37-year-old from Colorado, who was chosen after a vote by US team members, is the second Nordic combined skier to serve as flag bearer after Rolf Monsen did so at Garmisch-Partenkirchen 1936.

Having made his Olympic debut two decades ago at Lillehammer 1994, Lodwick is the first American to make six appearances at an Olympic Winter Games.

After a brief retirement, he also claimed two World Championship titles at Liberec in 2009, before securing a first Olympic medal with team silver at Vancouver 2010.

Very much enjoying an indian summer to his career, Lodwick led the US team to a World Championships bronze medal in 2013 before winning the national title this winter, and he will be confident of more medals over the next two weeks.

Todd Lodwick competing at the first of six Olympic Games, so far, in Lillehammer 1994 ©Getty Images



"Being nominated to carry the flag at the Opening Ceremony is one of the greatest honours that has ever been bestowed upon me", Lodwick said following being announced.

"I couldn't be more humbled and excited to be selected among all of the great athletes who were vying for this representation.

"Going into my sixth Olympic Games, it feels like I have already won a medal, and to cap off my career by representing the United States of America and the US team is truly a privilege".

Scott Blackmun, chief executive of the United States Olympic Committee, "congratulated Todd on this tremendous honour".

"Todd is such a deserving representative of our athletes and our nation," he said.

"His commitment and dedication embody what it means to be an Olympian, and I look forward to watching him represent the US delegation, both at the Opening Ceremony and on the field of play".

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