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China's top hurdler Liu Xiang told CCTV Monday evening that he feels "deeply sorry" that he was forced to leave the Olympic games.
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Liu, the world and Olympic champion, pulled out of the 110m hurdles qualifying heats after aggravating a tendon injury in his right foot. His exit from the games dashes China's greatest hope of winning gold in Olympic track.
Liu Xiang said "So many people have worried about me and have been so caring. I feel sorry. I could do nothing but withdraw from the competition. I didn't feel right when I was warming up before the race. I knew my foot would fail me. It was painful when I was just jogging. Two weeks ago, I ran a 12.90-something. I don't know why things turned out the way they did. I wanted to hang on. But I couldn't. It was unbearable. If I had finished the race, I would have risked permanent injury. I can't describe my feeling at that moment. I know I have the ability -- after my foot recovers. I was in good form otherwise. I don't want to say any more. I will recover someday. The big thing for me right now is to take care of my foot. I will have my chances in the future. After all, I'm at the top of my form. I will stay optimistic. I won't blame others. I will cheer myself up. I am not that type of person. I never quit easily. I will show them that I still can."
(CCTV August 20, 2008)
