BEIJING, April 12 -- Under-fire badminton player Lin Dan defended himself on Thursday against claims he fought with coach Ji Xinpeng during the national team's training camp in Fujian province but the Daily Sunshine, which broke the story, is sticking to its guns.

    "Nothing happened. I was furious about the report," the world No 1 said on his blog, reacting to the newspaper's report that several provincial and Beijing reporters witnessed the fight.

    Lin asked his fans not to believe the story.

    "It's not the truth. I hope such reports will not affect my Olympic preparations or my relationships with my coaches."

    Head coach Li Yongbo and the sport's governing body also expressed their doubts about the report's credibility, but refused to say more.

    However, a Daily Sunshine staff member, who refused to give his name, confirmed the story. The clash reportedly began after Lin lost a team match and complained to Ji.

    The two were then said to have engaged in a heated discussion when Lin took a swing at his coach, and was then pulled off him after trying to attack him a second time.

    Ji said on his blog something "displeasing" did happen "but Lin apologized to me after that."

    "Right now it's crucial to prepare for the Olympics. It's all over. I appreciate all the concerns from fans," his blog said.

    About three months ago, Lin was involved in another clash, with South Korea's Chinese head coach Li Mao during the Korea Open Super Series final against Lee Hyun-il. Critics have criticized Lin's head coach and the sport's governing body, charging they spoil Lin.

    (Source: China Daily)