Beijing (CNS)--China's star basketball player Yao Ming might retire this summer because of his left ankle injury, China News Services (CNS) reported from Beijing Tuesday. Though he is recovering gradually, Yao said he is being conservative about the healing process.
"It all depends on the ankle. If I can get it healthy, then I'll retire in two years. Otherwise, it'll be this summer," Yao told the media.
Yao first hurt his left ankle in February 2008 and then was hit by another fracture in almost the same place in May 2010. Furthermore, he was cut down for a third time by the troublesome left foot two month later.
"Right now the situation is just as it was at the same period last year when I battled against the last injury," Yao told China Daily. "Frankly, I can't be too optimistic. I must just remain patient."
Yao's five-year contract with the Rockets will expire on June 30. However, as the NBA's suspension crisis is still looming, Yao may win more time to heal his wounds.
But even when Yao retires, he doesn't plan on slowing down. "I still have a lot of ambition now," said the 30-year-old basketball star. "I plan to look after my family better, and I will keep on contributing to the development of basketball in China in the coming 10 years."
