LeBron James compared to George Washington while carrying American flag at 2024 Olympics opening ceremony

An image of LeBron James holding the American flag during the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony has already become a viral meme. 

The four-time NBA champ, who served as the nation's flag bearer alongside tennis star Coco Gauff, was seen standing on the front of a boat floating down the River Seine on Friday evening. 

Many quickly drew comparisons to the iconic image of George Washington crossing the Delaware River in 1776. 

'LeBron James looks like he just founded America,' one fan joked on X alongside the image of James.

'General Lebron James crossing the Delaware,' another hilariously chimed in, while a third joked, 'LeBron James invented the United States.'

In the snap, rained poured down on the basketball legend, who was surrounded by America's nearly 600 athletes. 

'It's an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together,' James said when he was named a flagbearer earlier this week. 

'For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with big aspirations,' he went on. 

'Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I'm proud to be a part of this important moment.'

The gold medalist, who is playing in his fourth Olympic Games, was also interviewed live on NBC during the ceremony. 

'For myself and Coco, for us to represent our country, us being black kids as well, representing our culture, representing where we came from — it gives everybody so much hope where we come from,' James said. 

'That's all we can ask for. We take it with the utmost responsibility and honor.'