The popularity of President –elect Barack Obama has been without a doubt an increasing phenomenon in most parts of the world, so who could be more popular than him? Britney Spears apparently, and the World Wrestling Entertainment events, according to Yahoo’s Top 10 Searches for 2008.

Britney easily made it to number 1 after some hospital and court visits, but also some award-winning strikes and a brand new single. She was followed by the World Wrestling Entertainment events, with Barack Obama closing the top 3.

Obama was popular during the election campaign, but nothing could have boosted his popularity more than being elected president of the United States, from all points of view. As described in the Top 10, “his campaign defied political wisdom and made history at every turn,” while “his Web Strategy set the groundwork to make him the first wired president.”

Miley Cyrus confirmed her popularity by positioning herself on the number 4 spot in Yahoo’s Top 10 Searches this year. That of course might have had something to do with the Vanity Fair photo scandal, but nevertheless, Cyrus continues to get a lot of attention.

Lucky number 5 was multiplayer role-playing game RuneScape, followed at number 6 big new mommy Jessica Alba, who reportedly cashed in $1.5 million for her baby photo in the OK! magazine. Naruto came seventh as the Web’s most popular fictional character.

Lindsey Lohan came to the attention for her outrageous off-set life, rather than for performances. Family conflicts, controversial relationship, rehab and a photo shooting placed Lindsey at number 8 in Top 10 searches, followed by the always mommy-to-be Angelina Jolie. American Idol closed the top 10, despite audiences declining.