Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles has revealed his plans and reflections just weeks after an unexpected early finish to his track season.
Following a stellar yet challenging performance at the Paris Olympics, Lyles has taken a step back from the competitive circuit, igniting speculation and conversation among fans and fellow athletes alike.
The American sprinter faced a tumultuous time during the Paris Olympics starting with a thrilling victory in the 100m where he clinched his first Olympic gold in a photo finish narrowly outpacing Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson.
Olympic champion Noah Lyles dazzles at New York Fashion Week debuting on the runway with athletic grace and style.
However, his Olympic journey took a turn when he tested positive for COVID-19 shortly before the 200m finals—a race in which he still managed to secure a bronze medal.
«No, I ended my season. We decided that after the COVID situation, we are just going to call it there and I didn’t want to keep pushing plus and I wouldn’t have time to come out here and enjoy the gold medal tour as I call it,» said Lyles
While his peers like Letsile Tebogo, Kenny Bednarek, and Fred Kerley continued to dazzle on the Diamond League circuit, Lyles opted for a different kind of spotlight.
Recently he was spotted at the US Open enjoying the women’s singles final, a testament to his intention to savor his ‘ away from the track.
A prominent American sprinter believes no current athlete will surpass Usain Bolt's unique and unmatched track and field legacy
Lyles’ decision to conclude his season early has not dampened his spirits or his connection with the sport.
Instead, it has provided him with an opportunity to engage with his fans off the track and share moments from his life that go beyond sprinting.
Noah Lyles and Junelle Bromfield enjoyed a dinner with Gabby Thomas after attending the US Open finals in New York.
His presence at major sporting events like the US Open signifies his broad appreciation for athletics and his status as a prominent figure in the sports world.
Reflecting on his Olympic experience Lyles expressed a mix of pride and wistful contemplation.
«After finishing third in the men’s 200m, I opted out of the men’s 4x100m relay and took the time to congratulate Letsile Tebogo for his incredible victory as well as the fans for their unwavering support throughout the Olympic games,» he shared.
Looking forward Lyles has not shied away from discussing his future aspirations.
He harbors dreams of returning to future Olympic Games and pursuing the elusive goal of matching or surpassing the achievements of legends like Usain Bolt.