World
Flavor Flav: The Unexpected Superfan of U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team
Discover how Flavor Flav, the iconic rapper and reality star, became an unexpected superfan of the U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team. Explore his journey, passion for the sport, and the impact of his support on the team and fans alike.
Flavor Flav: An Unexpected Water Polo Superfan
As the U.S. women’s water polo team prepared to face Italy at the Paris Olympics, a unique scene unfolded at the Aquatics Centre in St.-Denis, France. Standing proudly at the edge of the pool, the team lined up in their vibrant uniforms while the unmistakable figure of rapper Flavor Flav stood directly across from them, clapping enthusiastically. The announcer called out the names of the American players one by one, and Flav responded with a heartfelt gesture, forming a large heart with his hands.
Throughout the match, the energetic Flav remained on his feet, refusing to sit down. He donned a custom water polo cap and jersey, both emblazoned with patriotic red, white, and blue colors, and sported a dessert-plate-sized clock hanging from a chain around his neck. This unlikely new fan of America’s water polo squad leaned animatedly against a glass barrier, shouting words of encouragement with infectious enthusiasm.
Every time the United States scored, Flav raised his wrists—each adorned with oversized watches—and erupted in gleeful shouts. He expressed that he didn’t mind whether the players could hear him or not; what mattered was that they remained focused on their game. “They know deep down in their hearts and way in the back of their minds that Flav is right there for us,” he remarked in an interview at a hospitality venue in Paris following the match.
In an Olympics where celebrities like Snoop Dogg have made frequent appearances, and a women’s rugby player has enlisted an N.F.L. superfan, the bond between this team of women water polo players and a 65-year-old rapper from Long Island stands out as an intriguing partnership. However, Flav is quick to emphasize that his dedication to water polo is genuine. “I’m all in,” he insists.
The U.S. team showcased their strength by defeating Italy 10-3 in a group match on Wednesday. They followed that triumph with an impressive 17-5 victory against France, concluding their pool play with a commendable 3-1 record.
Credit: Gabriela Bhaskar for The New York Times