Harry Potter has changed the world we live in today. The Summer 2012 Olympics in London are a good example of that. Many sports athletes have publicly stated their love of Harry Potter (see: Greg Louganis). The Denver Post brings us a bigger picture.

“I’m a huge Harry Potter fan, a huge JK Rowling fan. I’m a fan of everything she does and I’ve read all the books,” said U.S. basketball star Kobe Bryant, who sits alongside his children with a book to chill during the NBA playoffs.

…Ron Weasley (or at least actor Rupert Grint) helped carry the Olympic torch to the city. Former U.S. diving star Greg Louganis has dogs named Dobby and Hedwig. British cycling star Bradley Wiggins sounds like he was a member of Slytherin House.

Is it a stretch to call this the Potter Gen Games, when stars of Team USA are teenage gymnast Gabby Douglas and Colorado prep phenom Missy Franklin?

How has Harry Potter changed your life?