The Olympic season has given us a break from the constant news of popstar nightclub brawls and has put some of the world's most talented and famous athletes in the forefront.
ESPN The Body Issue 2012 showcases the strapping and toned physique of sporting champions. The spread features the 27 athletes completely nude performing their sport and posing in unusual positions.
Unlike usual magazine "body issues" which primarily focus on women, this issue glorifies the body of both male and female athletes. The nude shots are pleasing to the eye but are no where near provocative. The photography is full of saturated color and is sensually artistic. Alongside the editorial images will be in-depth interviews.
The shots from the issue were so overwhelming good, that the magazine has opted to release six different covers. "We had an overwhelming number of truly amazing photographs to choose from this year, which is why there are six covers," explained ESPN The Magazine Deputy Editor Neely Lohmann. On the covers are Tyson Chandler, Rob Gronkowski, Jose Bautista, Daniela Hantuchova, Candace Parker and Ronda Rousey.
The magazine releases a few weeks before the London Games and will also highlight U.S. Olympians, including decathlete Ashton Eaton, track star Carmelita Jeter and the women of the U.S. Volleyball team.
Here's the list of all the athletes flaunting their perfect form:
- Carlos Bocanegra (soccer)
- Daniela Hantuchova (WTA)
- Rob Gronkowski (NFL)
- Abby Wambach (soccer)
- Tyson Chandler (NBA)
- Candace Parker (WNBA)
- Maurice Jones-Drew (NFL)
- Jose Bautista (MLB)
- Brad Richards (NHL)
- Maya Gabiera (surfing)
- Ronda Rousey (MMA)
- Mike Smith (jockey)
- Tim Morehouse (fencing)
- Walter Dix (track)
- Danell Leyva (gymnastics)
- Suzann Pettersen (LPGA)
- Ashton Eaton (decathlon)
- Carmelita Jeter (track)
- Anna Tunnicliffe (sailing)
- Oksana Masters (Paralympics rowing)
- USA Volleyball Team, which includes:
- Destinee Hooker
- Stacy Sykora
- Alisha Glass
- Cynthia Barboza
- Megan Hodge
- Nellie Spicer
- Heather Bown
The issue hits stands July 13.
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