Zhang Wins Women's Badminton Singles Title

Defending champion Zhang Ning won the gold medal in the women's singles badminton competition on Saturday at the Beijing Olympic Games.

She became the first female Chinese badminton player to win two consecutive Olympic golds in this event.

Thirty-three-year-old Zhang won the title by beating world No. 1 Xie Xingfang, her teammate, 21-12, 10-21, 21-18.
Zhang was excited as she spoke about the game.

"For four years, I think I have made tremendous efforts for the Games. By participating in the Olympics, I have sacrificed a lot. But I am satisfied with my performance today."

Zhang won the first game 21-12, but was tied with Xie who took the second game 21-10.

The last game was a long and grueling battle that Zhang won 21-18. It was a duel of will and courage rather than skill withboth players on the verge of exhaustion after days of fierce competition against the world's top players.

Zhang Ning said, "I have always been enthusiastic in badminton and have made it my life-career. And I believe consistent efforts will make my performance perfect."