Olympic athletes draw crowds for their amazing achievements, but some have all eyes on them because of their movie star looks and ripped bodies. These sexy athletes have graced the covers of magazines and earned the status of "Olympic hearththrobs." From 1970s Olympic hottie Bruce Jenner to sexy swimmer Ryan Lochte to javelin-throwing model Leryn Franco, here are some of the Hottest Olympic Athletes that make fans' hearts flutter.
The 2012 London Summer Olympic Games set the stage for fierce competition among the world's top athletes in track and field, boxing, gymnastics, soccer, swimming and basketball, among other sports. Explore Biography.com's list of Olympic 2012 Athletes, from swimmers Missy Franklin, Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte to javelin-throwing beauty Leryn Franco, to swift track stars Tyson Gay, Justin Gatlin, Yohan Blake, Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Sanya Richards-Ross, and more.
Shaquille O'Neal, Carmelo Anthony and Lebron James are just a few of the most well-known basketball players to have competed in the Olympic Games. The men's and women's national teams, often comprised of some of the top American professional and college players, have proven to be two of the most successful teams from the U.S. Since their first Olympic appearance in 1936, the men's team has taken home a total of 13 gold medals, with the women not far behind, claiming six since their start in 1976. From legendary figures like Michael Jordan to female powerhouses like Lisa Leslie and Sheryl Swoopes, Biography looks at the most famous names who have dominated the Olympic courts.
Boxing was first introduced as an Olympic event at the 1904 Summer Olympics. Since then, the Games have introduced us to future boxing legends. In 1960, boxer Muhammad Ali won a spot on the U.S. Olympic Boxing Team, returning home that year with a gold medal. At the 1976 Olympics, Sugar Ray Leonard won the gold medal in light-waterweight boxing, with the heavyweight title awarded to Leon Spinks. These men join the group of fighters, from George Foreman to Floyd Mayweather, who have made history in their run for Olympic Gold. Biography looks at some of the hardest hitters in Olympic boxing history.
Since 1928, we have watched some of the world's most talented gymnasts leap, flip and twirl their way to Olympic gold. From the balance beam to the uneven bars, these poised athletes have balanced artistry and athleticism to win medals and the public's hearts. From legends like Nadia Comaneci and Olga Korbut to favorites like Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin, Biography looks at the famous gymnasts who have earned Olympic medals.
Olympic medal winners have wowed us with their athleticism and determination and have made history with some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history. From Bruce Jenner's 1972 world record victory lap to Michael Phelps's astounding eight medal sweep at the 2008 Beijing Games, these champions have proven they have what it takes to be the best. Here's a look at some of the most well-known medal winners from past and present Olympic Games.
Throughout the history of the Olympics, the opening ceremonies have marked the official commencement of the Olympic Games. The celebration, with traditions including the declaration of the Olympic Oath and the running of the torch, signifies a gathering of nations to celebrate the best in sports. The Olympic opening ceremoines have also provided an opportunity for host cities to showcase their cultures and often feature native performers and superstars. These gifted performers have used their talents to ignite the excitement and spirit that is the Olympic Games. From Celine Dion to R. Kelly, Biography looks at the many performers who have graced the stage of the Olympic opening ceremonies celebration.
Olympic swimmers always seem to make a big splash and are the among the most-watched athletes at the Summer Games. The speed, endurance and athleticism of stars like Michael Phelps, who made history winning 16 Olympic medals, captivate sports fans, hoping to witness record-breaking achievements in the pool. Here's a group of legendary swimmers who have taken the Olympic heat to victory.
Track and field, one of the oldest competitions in sports history, has turned out some of the most impressive all-around athletes through the ages. Champions like Jesse Owens, Carl Lewis and Jackie Joyner-Kersee have raced, jumped and thrown their way into the history books with record-setting achievements. Here are some of the legendary track and field stars that have made it to the top of their field.