Noah Lyles Secures 200m Bronze Despite Covid-19 Setback, Reflects on Challenging Olympics

American Sprinter Overcomes Illness to Deliver Medal Performance

Noah Lyles, the American sprinter who was poised to make history with an Olympic sprint double, found himself battling more than just his competitors at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite being hit by Covid-19 just days after winning the 100m title, Lyles secured a bronze medal in the 200m final, an achievement he described with both pride and relief.

Lyles, 27, clinched the 100m gold in a dramatic photo finish on Sunday, edging out Jamaica's Kishane Thompson in what has been hailed as the fastest 100m race in history. His victory, by a mere five-thousandths of a second, was a testament to his incredible speed and competitive spirit. However, just four days later, Lyles was dealt a severe blow when he tested positive for Covid-19 early Tuesday morning.

Despite the illness, Lyles chose to keep his positive test result secret from his rivals. He made a notable entrance onto the track for the 200m final with his characteristic enthusiasm, only to be visibly struggling as the race progressed. Botswana's Letsile Tebogo took the 200m crown, while Lyles finished third behind Kenneth Bednarek.

In a candid reflection post-race, Lyles admitted that Covid-19 had significantly impacted his performance. "I've had to take a lot of breaks," he said. "I was coughing through the night. I'm more proud of myself than anything, coming out here to get a bronze with Covid. I was quite light-headed after that race. Shortness of breath, chest pain, but after a while, I could catch my breath and get my wits about me. I'm a lot better now."

Lyles had initially planned to compete in the 4x100m and 4x400m relay races, but he later announced on social media that his participation in the remaining events would be curtailed. "I believe this will be the end of my 2024 Olympics," he wrote. "It is not the Olympics I dreamed of but it has left me with so much joy in my heart - I hope everyone enjoyed the show."

The decision to withdraw from the relays was underscored by Lyles’ visibly strained condition post-race. He was helped off the track in a wheelchair, an indication of the toll the illness had taken on his body.

Lyles' remarkable journey to the 200m bronze, despite the significant health setback, highlights his resilience and determination. His performance, though marred by illness, still stands as a testament to his competitive spirit and commitment to the sport. As he steps away from the Olympics, Lyles leaves behind a legacy of exceptional athleticism and an inspiring story of overcoming adversity.