The lanky left-hander from China's Hunan Province announced his retirement from the international badminton scene on 21st September, 2011.

Bao was a valuable member of China's world champion Thomas Cup teams of 2004, 2006 and 2008, winning a key singles match in the championship round of each contest.

Known for his graceful court coverage, Bao cited recurring knee injuries as the reason for his retirement.