It was supposed to be the coming of Jordan in Beijing.

Chinese fans of the retired American basketball superstar Michael Jordan wanting a glimpse of their idol in his first public appearance in the capital got an unpleasant surprise yesterday. Police cancelled the event due to security concerns.

The NBA legend - thought by many to be the greatest player to ever take the court - arrived in China on Monday. He was supposed to appear at Dongdan Stadium yesterday for a charity function at the Nike Basketball Park.

Thousands of fans crowded the site by early morning. Row upon row of school students stood holding huge Jordan posters. Some outside the stadium climbed a tall, mesh fence that encloses the facility to get a clearer view of the basketball legend.

Flower beds were destroyed and a car was damaged when enthusiastic fans stood atop it. Several billboards that blocked the fans' view were ripped down as the time of Jordan's expected appearance came closer.

That's when police decided to pull the plug and cancelled the appearance. Authorities said they feared potential disorder.

But that just angered the fans as many shouted Jordan's name in unison.

Jordan's China tour will continue today, with his disappointed followers still eager to catch a glimpse of their hero. (来源：英语杂志 http://www.EnglishCN.com)