Jakara Anthony, Matt Graham Lead Australia as Olympic Flag Bearers
Jakara Anthony and Matt Graham have been named flag bearers for Australia at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. The prestigious role acknowledges their significant contributions to Australian sports and their remarkable achievements in winter sports.
Jakara Anthony: Aiming for Gold
Jakara Anthony, the reigning Olympic gold medallist in mogul skiing, will attempt to defend her title starting on February 10, 2026. Camplin, the Australian team delegation head, praised Anthony as a “role model” who inspires her teammates. Her success in Beijing has sparked Olympic aspirations among many competitors in the team.
Matt Graham: A Veteran’s Legacy
Matt Graham, who won a silver medal in the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics, will also serve as a flag bearer. Competing in his fourth, and likely final, Olympics, Graham expressed his gratitude for this honor. He highlighted the importance of representing Australia and leading what he considers the strongest Australian team in Winter Olympic history.
Graham’s Journey
- Sochi 2014: Graham made his Olympic debut as a hopeful newcomer.
- PyeongChang 2018: He earned a silver medal in the men’s moguls.
- Beijing 2022: Graham made a remarkable comeback following an injury.
Camplin noted that Graham has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership and embodies the Australian spirit during competitions. He will proudly carry the national flag at the opening ceremony.
Upcoming Australian Competitors
The first Australian athlete to compete will be 18-year-old Daisy Thomas, who will make her Olympic debut in the women’s freeski slopestyle qualifying round. While Anthony is the only Australian defending an Olympic gold medal, veteran snowboarder Scotty James aims to complete his medal set at his fifth Olympic Games. James, who previously won bronze in 2018 and silver in 2022, will also be a competitor to watch.
The Winter Olympic Games will begin on February 10, 2026, and will be broadcast on the 9Network, 9Now, and Stan Sport.
