Summer Olympics 2012: 10 Athletes Who Can Steal Spotlight from Michael Phelps

If the Olympics had a king that man would probably be Michael Phelps. 

As if having 16 gold medals under his belt wasn't enough it looks like the 27-year-old is still thirsty for the gold and can again be capturing first place in some of the swimming event in London. 

But could 2012 be the year when this king finally gets dethroned? 

Not only are international athletes stepping their game up, but even members on Phelps own team have thrown their hat into the ring. 

It might be good to be the king, but unfortunately for Phelps, that feeling might not be around for long. 

Justin Gatlin

Justin Gatlin may not be as famous or popular as other athletes on this list, but if the stars align themselves just right, this could be the year when Gatlin starts appearing on Wheaties boxes and Gatorade bottles across America. 

Making his return after a four-year ban. Gatlin has what it takes to conquer the gold and the hearts of unsuspecting fans everywhere. 

Missy Franklin

Described as a "stud" by Michael Phelps himself, this 17-year-old is already a decorated athlete having competed in Beijing where she won five medals (three of them gold). 

She may not be quite ready to be the queen of the Olympics, but definitely earns herself a spot as a member of the royal court.

Asafa Powell

Asafa Powell may not be as well known as his Jamaican teammate Usain Bolt, but if there is anyone who can give Bolt a "run for his money" it's definitely Powell. 

People have been calling Powell the fastest man ever for years, maybe its time he steps up to the plate and earns the international recognition he deserves. 

Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh

If Phelps is king, Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh are the co-regents of the Olympic world. 

These queens of the beach have been undefeated in the past two Summer Games—their unbeaten streak totaling 108 matches. 

Another perfect summer would definitely give May-Treanor and Walsh the edge to knock down Phelps. 

Ryan Lochte

Phelps' closest competitor Ryan Lochte is looking not only to take the "Baltimore Bulltet's" medals this summer, but his spot on the top. 

Keep a close eye on this heated rivalry in the pool—it may be the right stage for a coup d'etat. 

Tyson Gay

Perhaps the fastest American in the world, Tyson Gay is ready to claim the top spot. 

After Beijing, his competitor Usain Bolt became a household name—expect Tyson Gay to follow in these foot steps. 

Kobe Bryant

The Lakers superstar is already known throughout the world, but this year in London, Kobe Bryant may make an impact on the international scene like we've never seen before. 

He may be getting older in years, but his game just keeps on improving. 

Yohan Blake

Newcomer Yohan Blake may be competing in his first Olympics this year, but he is already expected to surpass his fellow teammate Usain Bolt. 

London 2012 could be the year when this young gun starts making a blast on the international scene. 

LeBron James

LeBron James is already known as King James, and now that he is fresh off his recent NBA title victory it may be time for him to take his royal decree to the international level. 

All eyes may be on Phelps when he is in the water, but when LeBron steps on the court the spotlight is on him. 

Usain Bolt

If there is anyone who can dethrone Michael Phelps, it is Usain Bolt. In fact, some may argue that Bolt, whose records make him the fastest man on earth, is already the king.

It's the inter-sports battle of the summer: Phelps vs Bolt (or Aquaman vs Flash for the comic book fans out there). 

Watch it and pass your own judgement. 

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