Who is the best-paid Olympian?

AP

Most Olympic athletes don't earn anything for competing in the Olympic Games, but there are notable exceptions. While many can only hope to have their travel expenses paid for - often by corporate sponsors or private donors - some athletes will be raking it in at the London Olympics, which kick off on Friday night.

Governments don't tend to contribute much financially, so athletes rely mostly on the generosity of wealthy individuals and corporate sponsors. However some governments like the US and Russia pay "medal bonuses" for each medal won.