The dollars and cents of the Olympics

The Olympics have become a multi-billion dollar business, and the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, China are expected to set record revenues.

The 2008 Summer Olympic Games begin Friday in Beijing, and the world will be captivated by the 13,000 athletes competing over the next two weeks.

But what was once the pantheon of amateur athletic competition is now a lucrative business for nearly everyone involved.

Multiple billions of dollars are set to be made this summer by the International Olympic Committee, media companies, sponsors, the host nation of China and athletes themselves. That money comes from a slew of sources, including broadcasting revenue, advertising sales, corporate sponsorships, ticket sales and licensing agreements.

Here's a look at just how big the Summer Games really are.
NEXT: Broadcasting rights