BEIJING (AP) — Chinese media have reacted angrily to doping accusations swirling around new swimming sensation Ye Shiwen, who has won two gold medals at the Olympics.
The accusations grew after the 16-year-old won the women’s 200 meters and 400 individual medley. John Leonard, a U.S. coach, was quoted in British media as saying Ye’s performances were “unbelievable” and “disturbing.”
On Wednesday, the state-run Global Times responded by saying questions about Ye’s feats were unfair.
“The West still judges China with an old mentality, and is petty about the progress China makes,” the newspaper said in an editorial. That was followed by state broadcaster CCTV backing Ye on its noon newscast.
Olympic organizers in London also have defended Ye.