For those of you following the dramatic, mysterious case of superstar Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang, who backed out of his first Olympic race Monday, this letter from Liu released earlier this week and excerpted by the state-run newspaper China Daily adds to the mystery.

Note the paragraph about how "pressure has also piled on me." As my story from Monday noted, speculation has run rampant in China that Liu cracked under pressure, faked his heel injury and backed out of the race. I wonder if this puts such suspicions to rest.

FENG SHUYONG, head coach of China's track and field team, published this letter from Liu Xiang on his blog.

To my supporters,

Thanks for the understanding and support you have shown me at this time. I am still feeling sad about my withdrawal and the disappointment I brought to you all.

July 13, 2001, the day when Beijing won the bid for the 2008 Olympic Games, happened to be my 18th birthday, which tied my birthday celebration with the joy of the successful bid, although I was not well-known at that time.

Attending the Beijing Olympic Games is a dream for every athlete, and I put in 100 percent effort.

At the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, I realized my championship dream, and from then on, winning the gold in my country was my unshakeable goal.

I always like facing challenges and never give up. It is my character. In fact, I was very confident in Greece.

Since I won a gold medal in the 110m hurdles race at Athens four years ago and titles in other tournaments, I have received lots of attention and support.

At the same time, pressure has also piled on me. I couldn't attend parties freely with friends like my peers. I could also feel the rising expectations from my fellow countrymen.

I knew everyone was watching me at the Bird's Nest and on television. I wanted to rush to the finishing line like I did before. But my right foot really knocked me down. I think I am no less upset and disappointed than you, my supporters. And please trust me I am who I am.

A number of friends sent me messages and called me to express their concern. I sincerely thank them for all their understanding, support and encouragement. And I also want to thank all my countrymen for your great support during the last four years.

I believe I still have power, and you will see a faster Liu Xiang.

-Jack Chang