Wang Yimei of China smashes during women's volleyball preliminary round match between China and the U.S. at the London 2012 Olympic Games in London， Britain， Aug. 1， 2012. U.S. defeated China 3-0. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

Chinese players celebrate after scoring during women's volleyball preliminary round match between China and the U.S. at the London 2012 Olympic Games in London， Britain， Aug. 1， 2012. U.S. defeated China 3-0. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

LONDON, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- China was beaten by the world No. 1 U.S. in straight sets in the women's volleyball tournament of London Olympics on Wednesday.

The Chinese, once champion in 2004 Athens Games and bronze medal winner in Beijing Games, lost the match 24-26, 16-25, 29-31.

With a third win, the Americans booked a berth of the quarterfinals in advance. Destinee Hooker and Megan Hodge were both on top form for USA, who gave China major problems.

China beat Serbia and Turkey both 3-1 in the previous games as its injured key hitter Wang Yimei returned to court, while USA showed a sign of intent beating world No. 2 Brazil to harvest their second win.

Besides Serbia, China will play in the same pool in London along with defending champion Brazil, world's No.1 U.S., Turkey and South Korea. Italy, Russia, Japan, Algeria, the Dominican Republic and host Britain make up the other six-team pool. The top four teams to emerge out of each pool will play the quarterfinals.