The stars take over Rio

There is no greater athletic achievement than being an Olympian, and the experience is an unforgettable one—case closed. Tennis' lucky medal contenders have officially settled in at Rio before play starts on Saturday.

Timea Bacsinszky found time for a memorable photo op.

Venus Williams is partaking in her fifth Olympics, but she's as excited as if it were the very first time.

Her doubles partner and sister Serena Williams is also gearing up for adding more medals to her collection with a throwback to 2000.

Ana Ivanovic is representing Team Serbia with aplomb.

It's not all fun and games (pun intended) though, as there's plenty of training going on.

CoCo Vandeweghe showed WTA fans what a day in the life is like in Rio.

Flag bearer Andy Murray is also practicing his flag skills (and it looks like he needs it).

Even Rafael Nadal is in the spirit, riding the bus proudly with some Spanish team members.

Here he is again with the whole team (including Garbine Muguruza) raring to go.

You won't want to miss Team USA decked out in boat shoes.

There's a lot of team bonding going on, which is rare in this fiercely individual sport.

And given the occasion, the stars of tennis are embracing the chance to meet stars from other sports.

Four lucky pros will hold the flags for their respective countries when the Opening Ceremonies take place Friday night (Murray, Nadal, Caroline Wozniacki and Gilles Muller). Stream it live here starting at 7:30 p.m. EST.