The 28-year-old, who took a year off before Guangzhou after capping the 100-200 meters double at the previous two Asian Games and the last two Olympics, has however vowed to bounce back after his injury-hit Asian Games.

"I forced myself to train for these Games by nursing pain," he told Japanese media after his country finished a distant second with nine swimming gold medals behind the hosts China.

"I want to take care of my body because this is not the end," Kitajima added. "A regret is a regret. I want to refresh myself thoroughly,"

Other veterans impressed the world with their persistence.

Once a Dallas Maverick, China's first NBA player Wang Zhizhi played a key leadership in China's 77-71 final victory over arch rivals South Korea as well as in their title-defending campaign.

The 33-year-old was the team's leading scorer and rebounder and role model for his teammates with both Houston Rockets' Yao Ming and Washington Wizards' Yi Jianlian unable to play due to professional commitment.

In gratitude to his heroic performance, team players all put their gold medals around Wang's neck and playfully bowed to him following the award ceremony.

"I will continue to play for the national team and with Bayi (his club) if they want me," Wang confirmed after his last Asiad game. "I will try my best to stay in top condition and hopefully I can play in the 2012 London Olympics."

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