The enthusiasm surrounding injured hurdler Liu Xiang at Tian'anmen Square yesterday morning proved he is still one of the most popular sports stars in China.

Invited to attend the starting ceremony of 2009 Beijing International Long-distance Running Festival on Sunday morning, the reigning world champion and former Olympic men's 110m hurdlers champion, appeared in front of tens of thousands of running fans, causing a crescendo of flashing cameras from the media and inspiring shouts from fans.

"I love you, Liu Xiang!", "Liu, you're the best!" and "Come on, Liu. You will recover!" people shouted as they ran past.