London 2012: Power Ranking the 10 Biggest International Stars

Every four years, men and women from across the world step into the international limelight eager to capture the gold and the heart of audiences from all the four corners of this planet. 

This year, London has been set as the stage for these men and women to show their dominance over their competitors, and while fame is fleeting for some, others embrace it and go on to become household names. 

This list is devoted to those athletes, the ones whose international star appeal makes them famous even here in the U.S. 

10. Lin Dan

Badminton may not be the most popular sport in the U.S., but across the world, millions of fans are devoted to this racquet sport. 

Like any other sport, badminton has a poster boy, too, and this year the 28-year-old Lin Dan—representing his native China—could become one of the most celebrated international superstars. 

Already a four-time world champion and the reigning Olympic badminton champion, Dan is considered the greatest badminton player of all time—a title he will without a doubt continue to solidify with his performance in London. 

9. Hiroshi Hoketsu

Brimming with youthfulness, this 71-year-old Olympic competitor is not only the oldest Olympian competing in this year's Summer Games, but he's a champion who is ready to win the gold in individual dressage. 

Proving that his best years are still ahead of him, Hiroshi Hoketsu has the star appeal it takes to become an international hero. 

8. Maria Sharapova

Only 25 years old, this Russian tennis sensation is already ranked third in the world by the WTA (one spot above American tennis star Serena Williams).

Chosen to be the flag bearer for her country, Maria Sharapova is ready to fulfill her dream of being in the Olympics. Expect big things in the near future from this world-renown superstar.    

7. Pau Gasol

Chosen to replace Spanish tennis star Rafael Nadal as the flag bearer during the opening ceremony, Pau Gasol is ready for international action. 

The Lakers superstar may not have top billing when it comes to playing basketball in Los Angeles, but abroad, Gasol is a huge superstar, who alongside his brother, Marc, may provided Team USA Basketball with the biggest challenge of the Summer Games. 

6. Yohan Blake

As the fourth-fastest man ever, Yohan Blake is ready to take the No.1 spot from fellow Jamaican Usain Bolt—and this year could be the year when he does it. 

He may not be a household name yet, but he soon may replace Usain Bolt as the most well-known sprinter. 

5. Rebecca Tunney

Only 15 years old, Rebecca Tunney is not only Team Great Britain's youngest athlete, but she is also one of its most charismatic. 

The young gymnast's hometown advantage may go far, as the Brits cheer on this soon-to-be national hero. 

4. Asafa Powell

Asafa Powell may not be as huge of a star has his Jamaican teammate, Usain Bolt, but he is close to knocking the world's fastest man off his throne. 

The friendly rivalry between the two is must-watch TV, and if Powell isn't an international superstar now, he will be after the London Games. 

3. Roger Federer

With known rival Rafael Nadal out of the Olympics, Roger Federer's return to the Olympics could be his most triumphant yet. 

The Swiss tennis star is already an international superstar seeking to further his glory in London. 

2. Rebecca Adlington

Perhaps the host country's greatest hope, Rebecca Adlington, is already "Great Britain's most successful Olympic swimmer in 100 years."

Looking to win her third gold medal in London, Adlington is ready to wow the local London crowds—as well as the world. 

1. Usain Bolt

The title of "the world's fastest man" doesn't come easy, but it does come with some perks. 

After his outstanding performance in Beijing, Usain Bolt has embraced the international spotlight and is ready to once again have all eyes on him in London. 

Luis invites you to be part of his journey as a sports writer by following him on Twitter or via Facebook subscription.