China's Olympic champion gymnast Chen Yibing said he will continue to compete after a controversial officiating decision at the London Olympics cost him dearly.

"I won't retire because of what I went through in London," Chen, a Tianjin native, said during the municipality's Olympic commendation conference on Wednesday. "I've invested myself in gymnastics for more than 20 years. So I can't just give it up."

In the rings final, Chen received a disputed score that was 0.1 point less than eventual champion Arthur Nabarrete of Brazil after finishing his flawless routine with sound execution and a stable landing.

The 22-year-old Nabarrete stumbled during the landing but still won Chen's trademark event.

Still, Chen remains upbeat about the future.

"I will for sure take part in next year's world championships and the National Games. The 2017 National Games will be held in Tianjin. I might also compete in my home city then," the 27-year-old said.

Although he missed a chance to defend his gold medal, Chen said he felt satisfied with the response from the crowd, coaches and his opponents in the final.

"The referees' judgment was disappointing, but I saw all the spectators, my coach and even some opponents applaud to encourage me and I felt so relieved," said the four-time world champion.

Chen helped the men's squad defend its all-round team championship with a versatile performance on the rings, vault and pommel horse.

"I just want to have a good rest now. No training after the Olympics, but I haven't stopped yet (from other kinds of activities)," Chen said.

Chen said he will have a surgery to repair his knee in October, then try to recover for systematic training.

"I thought I wouldn't have any surgeries in my career (after London). But now I will try again as I am not done yet," he said.

Contact the writer at sunxiaochen@chinadaily.com.cn