BEIJING - Chinese fans of Yao Ming have expressed gratitude and sadness ahead of his expected announcement next week that he is retiring from the NBA.

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The 7-foot-6 (2.25-meter) Yao boosted the NBA's popularity in China and Asia by thriving at the highest level after the Houston Rockets made him the top overall pick in the 2002 draft.

His expected retirement comes after a succession of leg and foot injuries.

Basketball coach Song Chen told the Global Times on Monday: "If his injuries do not allow him to go further, we would respect his choices. He has been an icon in China, even in Asia."

Online commentators were sad Yao would not play in next year's Olympics, while others said they were proud of his achievements and expressed gratitude.