Venus hails Li after losing singles tie

Beijing: Former Olympic champion Venus Williams said China's Li Na played "the match of her life" as she rode baying home support to reach the semi-finals with a stunning upset win.

The six-time Grand Slam winner said she had no answer to Li despite a gulf in class highlighted by her 43rd ranking and career record of just two WTA titles.

"I just think she played the match of her life. Not much I could do about it," Venus said.

"I definitely would have liked to have served better and return better. I think that would have definitely helped my cause. Just lost my rhythm today. It happens. But she really played better than the best she can play I think. Got to bring it out at the right times, and she did."

Venus' sister Serena also crashed out to Elena Dementieva on a night of upsets with Roger Federer ousted from men's draw.

Li was backed by a raucous crowd at a packed Centre Court as she humbled the world No. 8 7-5, 7-5. However, Venus said she hardly noticed the intimidating atmosphere.

"I really don't hear that much when I'm on the court," she said.

"For me the crowd doesn't affect me a lot because whether they clap or scream, it doesn't make me hit my forehand better or worse, or any other shot."

She said Li was simply inspired by the Olympic spirit which has seen China storm away at the top of the medals table with 22 golds and counting.

"I think she's definitely had some nice results in her career, but nothing like this, especially against a player like me," Venus said.

"I felt extremely confident going into the match at all points, that I was going be the winner. So it's not like I even came into the match doubting that I was ever going to win. So it was definitely a surprise result for me."

The Williams sisters now set their sights on a second doubles gold after their triumph in 2000, when Venus also won the singles.

"I'm definitely disappointed not to be able to bring home a medal in the singles," Venus said.

"But I'm still in the doubles, and that's equally as important in these games. I'm super-focused on that."

Serena commented on an "insane" rain-hit schedule which meant the sisters did not wrap up the day's play until after 1:30 am (1730GMT).

"This is definitely insane. This is definitely a weird, different schedule," she said.