Chinese table tennis star Ding Ning has criticised the umpire of her Olympic final against compatriot Li Xiaoxia.
Li claimed gold in the event after beating the world number one 4-1, but the event was marred by three penalty points being deducted by umpire Paola Bongelli.
The penalty points came for transgressions including not throwing her service up straight, time wasting and taking her towel too early.
"I had an obstacle today, and not only from the opponent but from the judge as well," said Ning.
"I was affected by the judge. After the first one (point penalty), I tried to keep cool but could not hold it after the second.
"The judge was too strict. I always serve the ball like this. I have done that for the last two years and, even from the first game of the Olympics, I have served like this. I tried to change, but the levels are so close that either of us can beat the other."
Li and Ding also met in the final of the World Championships last year, with Ding coming out on top on that occasion.
