Lyles Withdraws From Relay After COVID Diagnosis
Noah Lyles, one of the standout athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, recently revealed that a COVID-19 diagnosis severely impacted his performance in the 200-metre sprint final. The 27-year-old sprinter, who had already secured a gold medal in the 100 metres, was aiming to become the first man since Usain Bolt to win both the 100m and 200m at a single Games. However, Lyles ended up taking bronze in the 200m after battling the effects of the virus.
Lyles first experienced symptoms on Tuesday, waking up with chills, aches, and a sore throat. He was diagnosed with COVID-19 later that morning. Despite his condition, Lyles decided to compete, saying, "I've run with worse conditions, I felt."
He kept his positive test result a secret from his competitors, maintaining his usual exuberant demeanour as he took to the track. However, it was clear the virus had taken a toll on him, as he struggled to breathe after the race and had to be taken off the track in a wheelchair.
"I was quite light-headed after that race," Lyles admitted. "Shortness of breath, chest pain, but after a while, I could catch my breath and get my wits about me. It definitely affected my performance. I'm more proud of myself than anything, coming out here to get a bronze with COVID."
Lyles' determination to compete was not without consequences. His performance in the 200m final was hampered, and he was unable to mount a challenge against Botswana's Letsile Tebogo, who claimed the gold. Lyles finished third, behind his fellow American Kenneth Bednarek, who took silver.
In light of his diagnosis, Lyles has decided to withdraw from the 4x100m and 4x400m relays, bringing his Olympic campaign to an early end. He shared on social media, "I believe this will be the end of my 2024 Olympics. It is not the Olympics I dreamed of, but it has left me with so much joy in my heart."
The Paris Olympics, unlike the heavily restricted Tokyo and Beijing Games, have no strict COVID protocols. Athletes are expected to self-monitor their health, and there are no mandatory isolation or testing requirements. USA Track and Field confirmed that they "swiftly enacted all necessary protocols" to ensure the safety of Team USA and other competitors after learning of Lyles' positive test.
Lyles' case is not isolated; reports suggest that at least 19 athletes in Paris have tested positive for COVID-19. The virus has notably impacted athletes across various sports, including swimming and track events. However, many, like Lyles, have chosen to continue competing despite the challenges.
As the world continues to grapple with the lingering effects of COVID-19, Lyles' experience highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face, even as competitions return to a semblance of normalcy. Despite the setback, Lyles' resilience and determination to compete, even at less than full strength, have only further cemented his status as one of the sport's most remarkable figures.
