World No. 2 Zhou Mi stumbles at National Games

World No. 2 Zhou Mi, representing Hong Kong, stumbled at the women's singles second round of badminton tournament at the 11th Chinese National Games here on Thursday.

Zhou lost to Wang Yihan from Shanghai 15-21, 11-21. Earlier on Wednesday, Zhou beat Cheng Wen of Hunan 21-15, 19-21, 21-15 in the first round.

"Physical strength is a big problem for me as I'm in my thirties," said Zhou, who has not been in good health condition recently and will go back to Hong Kong for a medical check-up afterthe National Games.

As a seeded player, Wang enjoyed a bye in the first round.

"Wang is a national team member and in a stable form. Before thematch, I know it will be a tough battle," added Zhou. "But I'm not under pressure because I really enjoy playing."

Wang, who has won 15 international matches in a row this year, is a rising talent and poised to win a medal at the National Games.

On her future plan, Zhou gave no details. "My biggest task is toresume good shape. So actually I have no goal in the National Gamesand don't care how far I can go."

Later this year, Zhou will take part in the East Asian Games held in Hong Kong. "I still do not set any goal in that tournament," said Zhou."Once I turn up on the court, it's a big victory and enjoyment for me."

In 2004 Athens Olympic Games, Zhou settled for a bronze medal after losing to Zhang Ning in the semis. In 2005, she retired but came back in 2007.

In 2008, she regained world No. 1 ranking and is now the second world following Wang Lin of Zhejiang. Since her comeback, she has been crowned in nine international tourneys.

Source:Xinhua