Vancouver Olympic gold medalist Kim Yu-na was included in the ``World's Most Influential People'' in Time Magazine's online edition, Thursday.
The Korean figure skater placed second in the ``Heroes'' section.
In a column contributed to Time, Michelle Kwan, the most decorated figure skater in U.S. sports, praised the 19-year-old. ``I have never seen a skater with such a combination of artistry and athleticism,'' she said.
Kwan hinted the Korean deserves to be a heroine as her performance influenced the sport itself as well as hopeful athletes.
``Kim's inspiring performances in Vancouver changed the face of figure skating forever. Those six and half minutes on ice left not only a mark in the record book but also an indelible impression on millions of young girls around the world,'' wrote Kwan.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Bill Clinton came in first for his devotion to efforts to help Haiti after it was devastated by the earthquake in January. He was praised as ``a brilliant choice to coordinate U.S. support earlier this year, along with President George W. Bush.''
The other athletes among the heroes included this year's Masters winner Phil Mickelson, and tennis star Serena Williams. Mickelson was chosen for his engaging personality, and strong relationship with his family, especially his wife who is struggling from cancer.
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