Noah Lyles teases what’s next after running—and it’s not what you expect

Triple world champion Noah Lyles is already thinking about life after track and field and he is not ruling out a career in the spotlight beyond athletics.

The 27-year-old sprinting sensation, who recently returned to his hometown of Alexandria, Virginia, to a hero’s welcome, expressed his gratitude for the support of his community and shared some intriguing thoughts about his future.

Lyles, who won gold in the 100 meters and bronze in the 200 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics, revealed to reporters that acting could be a future pursuit after his illustrious running career comes to an end.

“As it comes to me, I’ll decide,” Lyles said during a press event at Alexandria City High School (ACHS), his alma mater, following a parade in his honor as per

“You never know. I’m open to everything.”

Lyles was celebrated with fanfare by city and school leaders, students, and fans at his former high school, where he received commendations from the Virginia legislature and U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-8).

The event, attended by hundreds of cheering supporters, highlighted not only Lyles’ athletic success but also his ongoing influence as a hometown hero.

Mayor Justin Wilson praised Lyles during the festivities, saying, “We are here to celebrate Alexandria excellence. We are so proud of what you have used your platform to do.”

Lyles, a 2016 graduate of ACHS, responded with gratitude, acknowledging the unique bond he shares with his community.

“Not everybody has that opportunity,” he said.

“I’m thankful that I have a city that supports me and comes out and gives thanks that I was even from here.”

Lyles’ recent gold medal in the 100 meters at the Paris Olympics was a career-defining moment, especially after narrowly defeating Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson in a photo-finish, both clocking an impressive 9.79 seconds.

His bronze in the 200 meters, while still an achievement, marked a bittersweet moment in what many consider his strongest event. In a fiercely contested final, Lyles was bested by Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and fellow American Kenneth Bednarek.

Despite his success on the track, Lyles appears to be thinking ahead.

“I know I won’t be running forever,” Lyles said.

“When I’m done with this, there’s going to be another career.”

While he didn’t provide specifics, Lyles hinted at a wide range of interests, leaving the door open to possibilities in acting, media, and entertainment.

The sprinter, who also won the bronze in the 200 meters at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, is no stranger to life outside of sports.

A passionate advocate for mental health awareness, Lyles has used his platform to speak openly about his own challenges, gaining respect for his honesty and vulnerability.

His advocacy work has become as much a part of his legacy as his athletic achievements and it is likely that whatever path he chooses next will reflect his multifaceted personality.