CHINA'S famous diver Guo is also known as the "springboard diva". She was famous for calling a Canadian rival "fat" and reportedly sulking through a news conference for a title she had lost. But hey, with her looks, she can afford to be a little ill-mannered.

HOW HOT: 3.5 *

AMERICAN swimmer Beard was named FHM's sexiest athlete in a 2006 issue. And boy, was the photo spread smokin' hot. Not to mention that she bared all to pose for Playboy last year and appeared nude in an anti-fur poster recently for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. We doubt anyone will tire of her anytime soon.

HOW HOT: 4 *

PROMISING Italian volleyball player Piccinini is strikingly sexy, combining classic beauty with curves to die for. On the court, she is a no-nonsense volleyball player with inner strength. Off the court, she has stripped to appear in Italian movies and advertisements. She is in so much demand that Nike sponsors her official website.

HOW HOT: 3 *

THE South Korean swimmer who won a silver medal in the 200m freestyle event is undeniably hunky, usually wearing a boyish smile and a twinkle in his eyes. Plus, he scores extra points for being polite.

When he came in second to Michael Phelps in the 200m freestyle final, he expressed no anger or jealousy, and congratulated his rival immediately.

HOW HOT: 3.5 *

REPORTS say the British swimmer, who's the youngest Olympian in the Games, acts older than his years. BBC Sport's Mark Ashenden said he seems like "an old pro".

With looks that could have him auditioning for a Harry Potter movie, he draws legions of fans from across the globe - even if he stands at just 1.55m and wears braces.

HOW HOT: 3 *

GERMAN foil-fencer Peter Joppich's boy-band good looks raise temperatures. With his track record in the sport (he's also a treble world champ) and the way he waves his weapon around, we'll bet many women would love to play Zorro with him.

HOW HOT: 4 *