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Summer Olympics 2012: Top U.S. Athletes to Follow on Twitter
Some of these U.S. Olympic athletes may be well known, while some are flying under the radar heading into the Games. Yet, they all have one other thing in common: They like to communicate via Twitter. Some have a loyal fan base stemming from previous Olympic appearances, while others are still building their following.
Here’s an opportunity to follow and get to know your favorite Olympic athlete on the road to London:
Lolo Jones, Hurdler
@lolojones: “you guys are counting down for the start of the olympic games and i’m counting down till the end of them when i can eat ice cream candy…” — July 8, 2012
With 154,925 followers, this track and field athlete specializing in the hurdles loves to tweet. Lolo has appeared on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno. This will be her second Olympics.
Allyson Felix, Sprinter
@allysonfelix: “Name the one sentimental thing I always wear when I race who is my favorite legendary female sprinter from the past?” — July 9, 2012
Here, the Nike spokesperson engages her followers with some trivia and a giveaway. Felix was a gold and silver medalist in Beijing. Will she take home more gold in London?
Gabrielle Douglas, Gymnast
@gabrielledoug: “Such a pretty lake! Love it! 3 pic.twitter.com/CsAaHn24” — July 5, 2012
She captured the crowd at the recent live telecast of the Olympic trials in San Jose, Calif. Douglas, a world champion, may do the same at the London Games with her charm, grace and athleticism. Her two photos of a lake show her love for nature. It will be interesting what pics she’ll show us from London.
Susan Francia, Rower
@zfrancia: “FINALLY saw #MagicMike with @kittycatmeow95. Defied a small hurricane and had to sit on the stairs in the theater, but it was worth it!!” — July 7, 2012
The Olympic sport of rowing may not get the same coverage as gymnastics or soccer or track and field, though it should get its due. Francia is an Olympic veteran.
Hope Solo, Soccer
@hopesolo: “Inspired by all ur stories photos! Keep replying to @Gatorade w/ pics of where YOUR confidence comes from. Tag it #WinFromWithin #2Hope” — July 3, 2012
This female superstar of soccer needs no introduction. She made quite a name for herself at the 2011 FIFA World Cup. Solo was in the top 5 during her stint on “Dancing with the Stars.” It will be thrilling to watch her and Team USA during the Olympics.
Wallace Spearmon, Jr., Sprinter
@PrinceSpearmon: “So it cost 1k if you want to shoot fireworks this is madness… Dang” — July 4, 2012
Once again, here’s another Olympic track and field veteran who loves to tweet. Over 7,000 tweets thus far. You could learn a lot from Prince Spearmon.
@ryanlochte: “Wow even if #LochteNation doesn’t trend you guys are amazing!!! So many tweets from LOCHTE NATION !!” — July 8, 2012
He’s the other half of the friendly swimming rivalry of Lochte and Phelps. However, Lochte may not have as many followers at only 111,591, but he’s gaining incrementally with Phelps. At least he shows great appreciation toward his followers.
Michael Phelps, Swimmer
@MichaelPhelps: “Nap time” — July 9, 2012
Phelps needs no introduction due to his sheer star power in the Olympics. Will he achieve his goal of winning the most medals in Olympic history? Stay tuned to find out.
@ErrolSpenceJr: “Just got my run in feeling strong less than a month away from the Olympics!” — July 9. 2012
The seven-time U.S. National Champion may have the smallest following on the list, but don’t count him out when he gets to London. Many favored athletes tend to falter with the heavy pressure to achieve gold. Sometimes the unsung heroes may surprise us.
@DanellJLeyva: “I love being stuck in a plane for a longer than intended time due to bad weather” — July 8, 2012
You can’t help but relate to his sarcastic tweet as delayed flights are the new norm. This will be his first Olympics. Leyva is coached by his mother and stepfather – who were gymnasts.
