I REFER to Mr Chia Han Keong's column "Women just can't take the pressure" (my paper, Aug 11).

His harsh statement on Chinese shooter Du Li's failure to defend her 10m air-rifle title at the Beijing Olympics is sexist and subjective.

He said Du Li, Jana Novotna and Li Jiawei lost their games because of their supposed physical and mental limitations, but he provides zero empirical evidence to back up his claim.

He then praised male athletes for their determination and ability to focus.

However, he cited only two examples - Michael Phelps and the US Dream Eight - who happen to be dominating powers in their respective sports of swimming and basketball.

Mr Chia shows little sympathy for athletes who have trained very hard to win glory for their countries. He also missed out on the spirit of the Olympics.

Participation is more important than winning, and we still appreciate the efforts of athletes who could not take home medals.

Ms Zhang Shu Shu

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