LOS ANGELES (CBS) – The Spanish Olympic committee announced that Los Angeles Lakers star Pau Gasol will carry the Spanish flag during the opening ceremonies on July 27^th at the London Olympics.

Gasol will replace tennis star Rafael Nadal, who will no longer be participating in the games.

Nadal pulled out with an undisclosed injury.

“Today is a very special moment for me,” said the two-time NBA Champion. “I’m very excited because I’ve been named, after Rafa stepping down from the Olympics due to an injury, to be the carrier of the Spanish flag. It’s a very, very special moment, so I’m thankful and appreciative and it is one of the sweetest moments of my carrier.”