Noah Lyles wrote off the threat of Canada after the US won the World Athletics Relays in Bahamas last April, only for them to be crowned Olympic champions in Paris, with his own country getting disqualified.
Noah Lyles has never been one to shy away from the spotlight, and his recent performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games were no exception. The American sprinter, known for his flair and dramatic entrances, sparked strong reactions both on and off the track.
Lyles’ eye-catching antics during the finals of the 100m and 200m races raised eyebrows, with some critics labeling his behavior as attention-seeking.
But it wasn’t just his on-track presence that drew headlines. Lyles also stirred controversy by potentially creating tension with his apparel sponsor, Adidas, after expressing frustration over NBA star Anthony Edwards receiving a signature shoe deal before he did.
These incidents are just a few examples of Lyles' ability to keep people talking. Originally, Lyles had set his sights on taking home four gold medals at the Paris 2024 Games in the 100m, 200m, and both the 4x100m and 4x400m relays. However, circumstances did not go as planned, and he ultimately had to settle for a single gold in the 100m.
In the 200m final, Lyles finished with a bronze medal—his second successive bronze in this event—blaming his underwhelming performance on being diagnosed with COVID-19.
The diagnosis also ruled him out of the relay events, where the USA’s hopes were dashed by a baton exchange mix-up between Christian Coleman and Kenny Bednarek in the 4x100m final, leading to their disqualification.
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Ironically, it was Canada, anchored by Andre De Grasse, who claimed victory in the 4x100m relay. This marked the third consecutive Olympic podium finish for the Canadian relay team, leaving the USA to wait until the 2028 Olympics on home soil for another shot at a medal in this event.
Adding to the drama, a viral clip of Lyles from the World Relays in the Bahamas last May has resurfaced, where he seemingly belittled Canada’s relay team after the United States' victory.
When asked by a reporter about a potential rivalry between the USA and Canada, Lyles responded with feigned ignorance, repeatedly asking, "Who?" in reference to Canada.
Lyles' remarks, initially taken as trash talk, have come back to haunt him, especially after his illness forced him out of the relay events at the Olympics. With Canada emerging victorious, they had the last laugh, securing their place on the 4x100m podium once again.