Have American men always been fascinated by Russian women?

Maybe its a legacy from the cold war; the forbidden fantasy of “sleeping with the enemy”?

Maybe its the impression Russian women make on American media as Victoria’s Secret Angels and James Bond girls?

Russian website Pravda introduces you to the 10 most beautiful Russian models, actresses and athletes according to Americans:

Meet the 10 most beautiful Russian Women, picked by Americans:

1. Irina Shayk

Girlfriend to 25-year-old Real Madrid player Cristiano Ronaldo and muse to rapper Kanye West,  Shayk is well on her way to becoming one of the world’s top models.

Born Irina Shayhlislamova, in the mining town of Emanzhelinsk, Russia, Irina has worked for Guess, Lacoste, Missoni, La Perla, was the face of  the Intimissimi brand.

2. Maria Sharapova.

The 2nd most beautiful woman, according to Americans is former World #1 tennis player Maria Sharapova.

Engaged to New Jersey Net, Sasha Vuyachich, Sharapova made her big break at age 17, by upsetting Serena Williams in the 2004 Wimbledon final.

Yet Maria Sharapova’s is recognized for more than her handiness with a tennis racket. As an international sports model, Maria Sharapova has been  featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and has worked campaigns for Nike, Prince, Canon and Cole Haan, to name a few.

3. Natalia Vodianova

A true rags to riches story, Natalia Vodianova’s life is as inspiring as her beauty.

Known as the “Nizhni Novgorod Cinderella” in Russia, Natalia escaped poverty to become a world renowned fashion model working campaigns for Calvin Klein, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel.

In fact Natalia was awarded Inspiration Of The Year by Harper’s Bazaar for her charitable works.

4. Sofia Rudeva

Fourth place was given to former Miss Russia, Sofia Rudeva from Saint Petersburg.

5. Irina Voronina

Fifth place goes to a Playboy model Irina Voronina.

6. Natasha Galkina

Sixth place is taken by the model Natasha Galkina. Born in Bataisk, Russia Natasha is best known as the runner-up of America’s Next Top Model, Cycle 8.

Now she is an actress and producer working on Russian TV.

7. Valentina Zelyaeva

Seventh place goes to a model Valentina Zelyaeva who resides in New York.

8. Zhanna Friske

Eighth place is taken by a pop singer Zhanna Friske.

9. Anya Monzikova

Ninth place is occupied by an American actress of Russian descent Anya Monzikova, who starred in the TV series “Knight Rider,” “Plantation” and movies “Tropic Thunder” and “Iron Man 2.”

10. Maria Kirilenko

Tenth place is taken by a tennis player Maria Kirilenko.

Source – Pravda