After Amanda Beard’s appearance in Playboy magazine in year 2007, another female athelete made the headline again this year. Ashley Harkleroad, who is a less well known tennis player, has posed for Playboy August 2008 issue. She disclosed this plan after her defeat in the first round of French Open against Serena Williams. Her “incompetence” in tennis skill does not stop her from posing for the magazine.
Even before this, Ashley Harkleroad has once been compared to Anna Kournikova for her use of sex appeal, but with her decision this time, she definitely has made a step further. As expected, when interviewed, she said she felt empowered after the photo shoots. (Many empowered women do not have to reveal their body parts, don’t you think so? ) She also mentioned that she was proud to be the first tennis player ever to be featured on the Playboy cover. She claimed that she has natural body without big-busted figure.
Her reason may sound lame. But, she owns her body. She has the right. The real reason, I believe that it is the money that makes the deal. No matter what, Ashley Harkleroad has fast tracked her position as another sexy tennis player. However, to remain in people’s radar, she still has to achieved something in her tennis game. Currently, she is ranked 72 in the world.
I have seen all her photos in the magazine. Not as classy as I have seen like Amanda Beard. Mysterious angle with some clothing will be better than full frontal of her posing with tennis racket. In fact, she looks much more athletic and attractive in her real life photos when she was playing in tennis court.
I would say things are much better on Ana Ivanovic’s side. As of August 2008, Ana Ivanovic is World Number 1 on WTA Tour. She got her first Grand Slam singles title at the 2008 French Open. She was the runner-up in singles at the 2007 French Open and the 2008 Australian Open.
Ana Ivanovic posed for a fashion shoot in selection of swimwear and gown for FHM magazine (August 2008 issue) instead. Much more sexy and classy.
Ana Ivanovic in real life…
So, who is next?
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Marina // Aug 8, 2008 at 4:09 am
I work for Playboy - I know who is next, but won’t tell. HEHEHEHE…
Any advice on going to the gym when feeling lazy & tired?