1. Usain Bolt (Jamaica, Sprinter, 100 and 200 meters)
Bolt will practically have to crack the sound barrier to turn heads and live up to expectations, after a 2008 Olympics in which he shattered records for both the 100- and 200-meter dash. Most mortals would crumble under the pressure of having to break their own world records, but the “world’s fastest man” remains the world’s coolest athlete, seemingly having the time of his life as he prepares for this summer’s showdown.