Source: CCTV.com

12-13-2006 08:10

Special Report:   Doha 2006

Photo: Xinhua

Olympic champion Liu Xiang added another gold medal to his collection on Tuesday, winning the men's 110 meters hurdles. And, in the process, he set a new Asian Games record. The performance comes amid intense media and public attention.

Every moment Liu Xiang is on the track, you can feel his confidence.

But as soon as he crosses the finish line, he has to perform again - for the media.

It took little bit more than 13 seconds to finish the race, but thirty minutes to answer the barrage of questions.

He was patient enough and seemed to have got used to it.

Photo: Xinhua

Liu Xiang, gold medalist, world record holder, said,"I'm satisfied with my performance today. I've done what I should, a gold medal. That's plenty for me at the games."

There was less pressure for the champion at CCTV's Doha studio, with no need to speak with fervor and assurance, and keep smiling. But he seemed tired as he chatted with a fellow runner.

Liu is still only twenty three. But he carries the burden of so many expectations from the

people waiting outside for his autograph, and from his compatriots at home.

Liu Peng, president of state sports administration, commented, "Liu Xiang's achievements have been very steady over the last few years. but he's been given much more attention than most others. We're happy our people are entertained, but athletes are not entertainment stars. They need more time for training to achieve higher goals."