Liu Xiang takes the lead in netizens' votes for IAAF male athlete of the year

(BEIJING, October 17) -- The IAAF announced the male athlete of the year candidates on the morning of October 16th. Within 24 hours, Chinese athlete Liu Xiang's votes rocketed from 5th position to the 1st.

Since the Chinese media reported this event, many netizens joined in the votes. Liu, who has realized the grand slam in his professional live, earned high support by the Chinese.

However, the netizens' votes could not ensure Liu win the title. According to the regulations of IAAF, the final result will be decided by the Special Jury of the International Athletic Foundation.

The high votes Liu earned could ensure him enter the comprehensive evaluation stage by the Jury. The results will be released at the 2007 IAAF World Athletics Gala in Monaco on 25 November.