Zhang won a silver medal in the 500 m competition, accusing gold medal winner Cathy Turner of the U.S. of grabbing her leg during the race before stalking off the ceremonial stand, taking her medal off, and flinging her flower bouquet to the ground. Zhang in her protest was saying she felt Turner should have been disqualified for her move and she been awarded the gold medal. This drew a mixed reaction from the fans, some who jeered her display of poor sportsmanship, and others who applauded her taking a stand against Turner's controversial skating style and win.