Liu getting back to job
Chinese star hurdler Liu Xiang on Friday downplayed his chances of victory this weekend in his Shanghai comeback, saying he was just going back to work a year after his shock Olympic pullout.
Liu, a former 110m world champion and Olympic gold medallist in 2004 in Athens, told a news conference his Achilles tendon had healed after a December operation and that he was ready to compete again.
"It's natural for athletes to have all kinds of injuries," Liu told reporters. "I'm happy enough just to be back on the track."
The 26-year-old said Sunday's Shanghai Golden Grand Prix provided a convenient opportunity to test himself in his hometown and training base.
"It gives me a chance to run," he said. "I haven't thought much about the results -- I will see what I can do and do my best."
"This is my job," Liu said when asked what was motivating him to make a comeback as he is already the first Chinese athlete to secure a track triple crown -- a world championship, Olympic gold and a world record.
Chinese sports authorities have warned that although doctors have said Liu is fit to race, fans should not expect too much of him as he is not yet in top form.
He shrugged off concerns that his return might be premature.
"I'm feeling alright," he said. "Whenever I am on the track, I spare no effort. My foot injury has healed well -- I would not be competing otherwise."
Russian pole vault queen Yelena Isinbayeva, who is also bidding for redemption in Shanghai after failing to win a medal at last month's World Championships, joined Liu at the pre-meet news conference.
Asked what advice she had for Liu, the Olympic champion and world record holder said to shut out the noise and focus on meeting his own expectations.
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