Top 10 Athletes to watch at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing

The Summer Olympics in 2008 are sure to be full of plenty of athletes proving themselves to be among the greatest in the world, but there are certainly going to be a few that stand out above all the rest. Who are some of the athletes from the United States as well as the rest of the world that you'll want to keep a close eye on during the Olympics?

Top 10 Athletes to Watch in Beijing

1. Michael Phelps- How can it be anyone else? Phelps has his hopes set on breaking the rest for most gold medals ever in a single Olympic game by one individual. He will be swimming more than 12 times in 8 days, so it will be a true test of stamina and skills. If anyone is up to it, it's Phelps.
2. Liu Xiang- While much of the world might not know a whole lot about Xiang, the Chinese people do, and expectations are huge for him. In 2004 he became the first Chinese athlete to win gold on the track, and with this year's Olympics taking place in Beijing, nothing less than gold is expected of him. Dayron Robles of Cuba will be a huge threat to Xiang.
3. Yao Ming- For quite some time now Yao Ming has been the most well-known Chinese born person in the world. Ming has been the face of China in the United States through his play in the NBA. Now Ming has rushed back from an injury and will lead the Chinese team, which is set to open against the U.S.A. on Sunday.
4. Dara Torres- This 41 year old swimmer is competing in both the 4x100 relay as well as the 50m freestyle event. Amazingly this will be her fifth Olympic games, and she will be competing against many competitors less than half her age. Can Torres prove that age is only a number?
5. Natalie Du Toit- This 24 year old South African will make history as the first amputee to compete in the summer Olympic games. She will take part in the 10km open water swimming event. She will also carry the flag of South Africa during the opening ceremonies.
6. Libby Trickett- Trickett, formerly known as Libby Lenton before her recent marriage, has had some disappointments in the past at the summer games. She is favored in several events and hopes to make this her coming out party.
7. Shawn Johnson- Johnson is just 16 years of age, but she is the leader of the Women's American gymnastic team that have high hopes for these Olympic games. Johnson won the World Championships in 2007 and is known for an amazing floor exercise program.
8. Katie Hoff- Hoff is the women's version of Michael Phelps, competing six events overall. Hoff is just 19 years of age, but is expected to win at least a couple of gold medals in these games. In 2004 Hoff had shown much promise, but she hyperventilated and finished poorly in her main event. This year she is back and stronger than ever.
9. Usain Bolt- Bolt is known as Usain "Lightning" Bolt for his amazing footspeed. He is the overwhelming in the 200m, but the 100m will have the biggest showdown. Bolt will face fellow Jamaican countrymen Asafa Powell and American Tyson Gay in what should be a thrilling finish.
10. Lopez Lomong- Lomong was named the flag bearer for the United States at the opening ceremonies in Beijing. Lomong was formerly one of the "Lost Boys of Sudan," a group of 3,000 taken from their home during war. Lomong tells of his amazing story here. For him to be at the Olympic games carrying the flag is quite a story in itself!

The Olympic games in Beijing are set to begin and the athletes are gearing up for their respective sports. Enjoy the games and cheer on your fellow countrymen!