Kimiko Soldati by Annie Leibovitz
Vogue, July 2004
With the torch relay underway and the games just around the corner, fashion magazines have been quick to jump on the 2012 London Olympics for inspiration.
Grazia went the bizarre route of spray painting medal winners, posing them on pedestals and photographing them as Greek statues. MarieClaire.com went luxe, pairing sporty pieces by Balmain and Rochas with a swim cap and goggles for its "Training Day" feature.
But its Vogue who wins the gold for its archival slideshow of Olympic athletes as they appeared in the magazine throughout the years. No crazy makeup or haute couture; just stunning shots of raw athletic ability.
Michael Phelps by Annie Leibovitz
Vogue, April 2008
Tina George by Annie Leibovitz
Vogue, July 2004
Novak Djokovic by Norman Jean Ray
Vogue, September 2011
Lindsey Vonn by Annie Leibovitz
Vogue, May 2010
Shawn Johnson, Nastia Liukin, Chellsie Memmel and Alicia Sacramone by Annie Leibovitz
Vogue, April 2008