2016 Olympics: London Stars to Watch for in Rio

The 2012 Summer Olympics have been a stage for masterful performances by athletes throughout the world.

Which athletes have been the best?

On the United States' side, there are plenty to choose from, as they lead with the most gold medals and overall medals of any country.

The torch has yet to be extinguished on the 2012 games, but it is never too early to look at who will shine at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio.

While Michael Phelps, who holds the record for most Olympic medals of all-time, has said he will stay home in 2016, there are other London stars to watch for in four years.

Alex Morgan (U.S. Women's Soccer)

Every teenage boy in the United States knew Alex Morgan after seeing her in the 2011 World Cup and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition.

But now everyone around the world should know about arguably the best women's soccer player in the world, and she's only 23-years-old.

Morgan has wowed during her time in London, scoring three goals, all of which were in games the United States trailed.

The Americans won their third straight gold medal, thanks to Morgan's clutch goal to defeat Canada in the semifinals.

Watch out for Morgan in the 2016 Olympics, as by then she will have eclipsed the popularity of Mia Hamm.

Morgan is great for women's soccer, and the United States team specifically, as she may lead them to their fourth consecutive gold medal in Rio.

Gabby Douglas (U.S. Women's Gymnastics)

Gabby Douglas made history in the 2012 Summer Olympics, becoming the first American in history to win the gold in the team and individual all-around.

The 16-year-old was fantastic, winning over the hearts of many back home in the United States.

Now, the question is, "can she do it again?"

2008 Beijing Olympics gymnastics stars Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin both failed to repeat their success in the following games.

Will the same thing happen to Douglas, or will she be back to claim gold one more time?

The world will have to wait and see.

Usain Bolt (Jamaica Track and Field)

After winning the 200-meter dash with a blazing time of 19.32 seconds, Usain Bolt exclaimed, "I am a legend now."

Bolt is a five-time gold medalist and is looking for more in 2012.

Still, Bolt has a ways to go to catch up with Carl Lewis (nine gold medals). Bolt and Lewis have had beef lately, according to an article on latimes.com, after Lewis questioned the purity (in terms of performance enhancing drugs) of sprinters in today's day and age.

Bolt recently said he has no respect for Lewis, but will need to continue to prove himself if he wants to match Lewis' "bling."

Bolt has yet to commit to participating in the 2016 Olympics, but motivation to surpass Lewis and defend his title may be enough to get him to Rio.