China's top women's singles badminton player Xie Xingfang announced she would continue her career after the Beijing Olympic Games and put off her marriage to Lin Dan, the current world No 1 men's player.

Xie Xingfang (R) and her boyfriend Lin Dan.

"I want to try to compete with a relaxed mind and really enjoy playing badminton in future," said Xie, who maintained the world No 1 spot for most of the year before the Beijing Olympic Games only to lose to teammate Zhang Ning in the final.

"If I can manage to do this and adjust myself well, I will continue my sports career," added Xie, who will soon compete in the Denmark and French Open.

She also hopes to win the national championships for the Guangdong provincial team at the 11th National Games next year.

"At the last National Games, Guangdong was the strongest team at that time, but failed to win gold in the team finals, so the team expects me to continue to help them claim the gold next year," Xie said.

With the retirement of Olympic gold medalist Zhang, the 27-year-old Xie has taken over the mantle as the most senior member of the national team.

"I'm now the oldest member in the women's team but I feel no pressure so far," said Xie. "Some young players also did a good job recently."

After the Beijing Games, several Olympians, such as table tennis player Wang Nan, fencing gold medalist Zhong Man and taekwondo player Chen Zhong celebrated their weddings.

But for Xie and her boyfriend Lin, training and competing still top their priority list.

"Their weddings were pleasant and sweet," said Xie. "But right now we will not think about (the possibility of getting married) as Lin is still focusing on his sports career. I can understand and will support him."

(China Daily October 16, 2008)