Pictures of Athletes Looking Way Different Than They Do Now

Every athlete had a childhood. Despite how skilled and magnificent they may appear on the field, these talented superstars are just as human as the next diehard sports fan.

Some are more unfortunate than others in the family album category, and let's just say they'd rather forget the rough years.

Get prepared for an intriguing collection of athlete photos that are sure to keep you puzzled.

They're still searching for that right look.

25. Shaquille O'Neal

Followed by paparazzi since before puberty it seems, Shaq always kept the cameras flashing.

He would eventually pack on a few pounds en route to a dominating career.

24. Alexander Ovechkin

As a young child, Alex Ovechkin had yet to discover his brilliant vocal prowess.

In due time.

23. Barry Bonds

762 homeruns later and his dignity has only decreased.

Quite disturbing, yet somehow the most elegant part of Barry Bonds' career.

22. Darrelle Revis

And no that's not Tupac Shakur looking around thinking, All Eyez on Me.

Revis Island should probably pick up a mic, the talent is clearly there.

21. Alex Rodriguez

Once an innocent ballplayer, now a money-hungry superfreak.

Professional sports can often have this effect on promising athletes.

20. David Beckham

Since the days when a fluff was acceptable, Becks has seemingly altered his hairstyle bi-weekly.

It's paid off.

19. Phil Mickelson

There's nothing like the Moe Howard-esque bowl haircut to attract the ladies.

Amy Mickelson must've loved the Three Stooges.

18. Cristiano Ronaldo

Already scouting the future WAGs of the world at a young age. Precious.

17. Mike Commodore

From ginger sensation to bloody mess, current Lightning defenseman Mike Commodore seems to always be battling his vibrant hair.

But we miss the epic Afro.

16. Brett Favre

Even during his youthful years, Brett Favre and his long-gone mullet didn't seem ready for the invention of cell phones.

His experience with Jenn Sterger would (hopefully) divert him from advanced technology for good.

15. Brian Urlacher

The face is there, but let's not forget about the 250 extra pounds missing.

Not as intimidating before reaching puberty.

14. Chris Chelios

From awkward pre-teen to legendary defenseman, what a transition for the second oldest dude to ever lace up a pair of NHL skates.

13. Hakeem Nicks

Without the vintage goatee, the young Hakeem Nicks looks like just another determined football player looking to dominate the gridiron.

Now he's doing it with class.

12. Kelly Slater

After what seemed like a rough day at the beach, young surfer Kelly Slater evidently went home and decided he would become the youngest (20) and oldest (39) to be crowned ASP World Champion.

You can bet he followed through.

11. Wes Welker

A crafty veteran from the start, Wes Welker was always headed for greatness.

But with that slight trademark smile, we're left to believe he's always scheming.

10. Rasheed Wallace

Stoically awkward teenager to controversial and ferocious power forward, Rasheed Wallace traveled a long road to prosperity.

Few could've predicted his future physicality.

9. Gina Carano

Those were the days when MMA legend Gina Carano wanted to ride off on a lawnmower with Patrick Dempsey, and have John Hughes directing her life.

Just like any other teenage girl in the last 30 years.

8. Manny Ramirez

Just Manny being Manny before Manny ever was Manny.

An intriguing evolution for the mercurial slugger.

7. Chad Ochocinco

Chad Johnson by day, Chad Ochocinco by night.

A unique metamorphosis for this colorful receiver.

6. Chris Bosh

They grow up so fast.

5. Kevin Garnett

Seems to bear an eerie resemblance to Shawn Kemp as a high school star but heading down a far different path.

Kevin Garnett always kept it real.

4. Larry Bird

From budding star to aged legend, the change was quick and painless.

Good thing Larry Bird can laugh off the good old days.

3. Brock Lesnar

Lose the spectacles, carve some ink into those empty areas and we've got a UFC Heavyweight Champion.

The art of intimidation at its finest.

2. LeBron James

Naturally making Earth-shattering decisions at a young age, like perfectly sculpting the 'fro.

Such a promising youth.

1. Marc Gasol

Bet you didn't see that one coming. At least the high school years were good on Marc Gasol.

Always keeping his fans and teammates thoroughly amused.