Clive Brunskill/Getty ImagesYour Team USA Olympians have arrived!
Michael Phelps led the way at the 2016 Rio Games opening ceremony, behind him the many American athletes competing for a chance on the medal stand. The swimmer—who just so happens to be the most decorated Olympian of all time—carried the American flag as he made is way into Maracanã stadium before taking his place to enjoy the rest of the three-hour spectacle.
Athletic abilities aside, Team USA looked especially fashion forward in their Ralph Lauren-designed uniforms. Clad in red, white and blue (but, of course!), the sportsmen and women all wore navy blazers, striped tees, white trousers and multi-color boat shoes.
Team USA's flag bearer returns to this year's Olympics in hopes of earning his 23rd, and potentially even more, gold medal. Other all-star returners include Venus and Serena Williams, swimmers Ryan Lochte and Missy Franklin, gymnasts Gabby Douglas and Aly Raisman, and beach volleyball player Kerri Walsh.
Despite a great showing from Phelps' team, Walsh opted to watch the opening ceremony from the quiet comfort of her hotel room. The four-time Olympian took to Instagram to share her and teammate April Ross' decision, writing, "We decided to be inspired from our hotel rooms instead of walking in #openingceremonies It's a tough thing to miss but we have our bodies, minds & spirits focused on ONE thing," adding, "Consistently living in our strengths and playing powerfully present beach volleyball."
The United States has sent 554 athletes to compete in 31 different sporting events in Brazil. There are high stakes going into this years' games, as Team USA is poised to win its 1,000th gold medal.
If their entrance is any indication of what's to come, we predict golden, silver and bronze futures!