Pre-Games peek at Olympians
OLYMPIC SUMMIT | 125 of nation's finest athletes eager to show Chicagoans what they've got
If they're good at what they do, great.
If they look good doing it, even greater.
(Dom Najolia/Sun-Times)
Some 125 U.S. athletes are in Chicago this week for what's being billed as the Olympic Summit -- a chance for more than 400 journalists to interview the homegrown heroes who may star in this summer's Games in Beijing.
While athletes chatted up their chances, some were even more eager to please, apparently.
Swimmer Michael Phelps -- posing in jeans pulled down to reveal his underwear -- was among the jocks striking rather randy poses for the photo wire service Getty Images. (One poll has named Phelps America's sexiest male Olympian, while women.com called him "hot and humble.")
Also giving a peek at his drawers was sprint swimmer Cullen Jones, a clotheshorse who has said one of his goals is to write for GQ magazine.
They understand the new reality for athletes, said one sports marketing expert.
Michael Jordan did not become a world superstar only because he was a great basketball player. "He also happened to be a great-looking man,'' said Marc Ganis of Chicago-based SportsCorp.
"There's no question the physical attractiveness of an athlete is a significant part of their money-making capability,'' Ganis said.
He notes America's best-known female Olympic softball player.
"Why do we think of Jennie Finch when it comes to women's softball? She's a terrific player, but she's also very attractive,'' said Ganis.
For Olympic athletes, the window to take advantage of their opportunity is short, as the spotlight only shines every four years, he added.
Phelps, who won six gold medals and two bronze at the 2004 Games, represents Visa credit cards and Omega watches.
Chicago, which is aiming to win the right to host the 2016 games, is hoping the event, which runs through Wednesday at the Palmer House Hilton, also looks good in the spotlight during the summit.
"It gives us a positive approach. They'll get to know the city,'' Mayor Daley said after welcoming attendees Monday.