40+ Talented Female Athletes That Have Dominated the Red Carpet

This article appeared in thefashionball.com and has been published here with permission.

Not only have these women shocked the world with their endless talent but they've also left people stunned when walking the red carpet. These athletes could have easily been supermodels and you'll see why if you keep reading...

Danica Patrick — Racing

Not only have these women shocked the world with their endless talent but they've also left people stunned when walking the red carpet. These athletes could have easily been supermodels and you'll see why if you keep reading... [post_page_title]Danica Patrick - Racing[/post_page_title] Known as one of the most famous race car drivers of all time, Danica Patrick is an absolute media sensation and - let's be honest - fan favorite. Throughout the years, Patrick has not only broken the gender barrier in NASCAR but she's also paved the way for women in the sport. Patrick became one of the most successful women in the history of American open-wheel racing after zooming her way to victory in the 2008 Indy Japan 300, the only win by a woman in an IndyCar Series race. When she's not shredding rubber, Patrick is evidently lighting up the red carpet.

Danica Patrick — Racing

Gina Carano — MMA

[post_page_title]Gina Carano - MMA[/post_page_title] Often called "Crush," Gina Carano was the first women's MMA "it" girl long before Ronda Rousey entered the scene. She began training in Muay Thai before transitioning to competitive MMA where she competed in Strikeforce and EliteXC. Aside from a successful career in the ring, Carano has modeled for magazines including ESPN The Magazine and Maxim. After she retired from competing, Carano went on to do television and film work. Ranked fifth on a list of the "Top 10 Influential Women" of 2008, Carano won't be forgotten any time soon, especially after spotting her in this number. Does she not look like Princess Belle?!

Gina Carano — MMA

Anastasia Yankova — MMA

[post_page_title]Anastasia Yankova - MMA[/post_page_title] We think it's safe to say that Anastasia Yankova is a real-life warrior. Inspired by a childhood fascination with Xena: Warrior Princess on television, Yankova began training when she was just six years old. After a brief hiatus to focus on school, Yankova then began training in Muay Thai before competing in kickboxing tournaments. It wasn't long before she transitioned to MMA. Today, she competes in Bellator Fighting Championships and of course, rocks the red carpet in her spare time.

Anastasia Yankova — MMA

Nastia Liukin — Gymnastics

[post_page_title]Nastia Liukin - Gymnastics[/post_page_title] Considering that Nastia Liukin was born to two former Soviet champion gymnasts, it comes as no surprise that she began gymnastics by the time she was three years old. During her career, Liukin undoubtedly made a name for herself - she is the 2008 Olympic All-Around champion, a five-time Olympic medalist, a four-time all-around U.S. national champion, and so much more. Although the 30-year-old retired from the sport in 2012, there's definitely no forgetting who she is, especially after seeing her in this velvet number.

Nastia Liukin — Gymnastics