By Mike Connors
The Virginian-Pilot
© May 6, 2013
Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas is one of the nation’s most influential athletes, according to recent surveys.
Douglas, of Virginia Beach, is ranked eighth, according to surveys of sports fans from Nielsen and E-Poll Market Research. Forbes.com reported the findings Monday.
Forbes notes that being influential is not necessarily an indication of outstanding play. Recently released NFL quarterback Tim Tebow tops the list, though he barely played for the New York Jets last season. Forbes said Tebow has 2.2 million Twitter followers, many attracted more to his strong Christian faith than his playing ability.
A few other athletes on the list having played much lately, either. Swimmer Michael Phelps, another Olympic gold medalist, ranked second. Olympian Usain Bolt, who ran for Jamaica in the 2012 Olympics, finished third. New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter took fourth.
Douglas won Olympic gold in gymnastics in 2012.
For the full list, click here.
Made in the U.S.A.