国际英语新闻:Chinese Basketball Superstar Yao Ming Retires

Outpourings of support for Yao Ming came quickly online and at his farewell press conference.

In one posting on the social media site Weibo, a fan of Yao Ming said the player was always an influence in his life and childhood. Another remarked that Yao carried with him the pride of the Chinese people and remarked that he would be a hero even in retirement.

In comments earlier this week, NBA star Kobe Bryant praised Yao for inspiring young Chinese basketball players.

"In terms of opening up doors or for Chinese basketball players to come to the NBA or for the youth here in China to believe that it's possible to achieve the dream of being an NBA player - all that started from Yao," said Bryant.