China's short-track speed skating celebrities Yang Yang (R) and Li Jiajun announce their retirement in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 17, 2006.

Yang Yang, the first Chinese gold medallist in Winter Olympic Games, announced her retirement at the age of 30 here on Thursday.

Yang won two gold medals in 500m and 1000m speed skating at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games to end China's gold drought at winter Olympics.

Yang won a total of 59 world titles in her career in World Championships and World Cup events.

Yang, who studied in Utah State University of United States in 2003, shifted to Business Administration College of China's prestigious Tsinghua University in 2004 and would continue her study in Tsinghua after hanging up her spikes.

Yang failed to shine in 2006 Turin Winter Olympic Games in Italy, which probably catalyzed her determination of retirement.

Li Jiajun, a 31-year-old four-time Olympian, also ended his speed skating career on Thursday.

Li won 14 crowns in World Championships and seven titles in World Cup events. His only regret is that he has never won a gold medal in Olympic Games.

Editor: Donald