Liu aiming at the outdoor champs
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Finishing seventh at the Doha World Indoor Championships was not the dream result for China's star hurdler, Liu Xiang.
However, after a 19-month absence from the international stage, his effort in the men's 60m hurdles final was more than creditable.
Liu clocked 7.65 seconds in Sunday's final, which was won by archrival Dayron Robles of Cuba in a season-best 7.34.
His coach, Sun Haiping, said Liu's indoor comeback was just a warm-up for the outdoor season.
"Taking part at the Indoor championships was basically to get ready for the outdoor season and learn more about our opponents," said Sun.
"The World Cup in Croatia is what we want to win this year as that title is the only international one that is not in Liu's collection. I hope Liu can win comfortably."
Before heading to Doha, defending champion Liu adopted a low-key approach, declaring that reaching the final was his main goal. His attitude also aroused concern among the international media, which claimed Liu lacked confidence after coming back from his Achilles injury.
"My tendon is still sore, so I did not push too hard in the race," Liu said.
"It was very lucky for me to reach the final and I am satisfied with the result. All athletes have ups and downs that is normal. I will go back (to China) and continue my recovery and prepare for the outdoor events."
The injury is not the only hurdle Liu has to conquer. He must get used to facing defeat.
"Before the race, Liu realized he would miss the podium this time. It required much courage to face such reality but he showed he is ready to deal with it," said Feng Shuyong, vice-director of China's Athletics Administrative Center.
Liu is expected to focus on competitions in Asia this year, including his hometown of Shanghai and another grand prix meet in Taegu, South Korea.
Although getting off to a slow start to the season, Liu still boasts a lot of fan support.
According to a survey on sohu.com, 33 percent of the respondents were satisfied with his results in Doha while 22 percent were not. More than 24 percent said they would continue to support Liu, no matter how he performed.
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