by Simon Daish

Ding Ning led the Chinese Olympic squad into Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium for the 2016 Olympic Games’ closing ceremony as her country’s flag bearer.

Lei Sheng (Fencing) was China’s flag bearer at the opening ceremony, but following Ding’s two gold medals at Rio 2016 she was given the honour of carrying the Chinese flag as the Games came to an end.

“It’s an absolute honor to be a flag bearer at the Rio 2016 ‬closing ceremony, the honor belongs not just for me, but for our entire team, I’m very lucky and fortunate to be one of the flag bearers! Goodbye Rio! Next stop, stay true to our dream and move forward with a brave heart! Thank you all!” said Ding via her official Facebook page.

Ding Ning picked up her two gold medals in the Women’s Singles and Women’s Team events. She beat Li Xiaoxia (China) in the singles final, while she also contributed to China’s 3-0 victory against Germany in the team final.

The next Olympic Games will take place in Tokyo in four years’ time, and Ding will move forward as the defending Olympic Champion.