Noah Lyles admitted to competing in the 200-meter final while battling COVID-19. The American sprinter, who finished a surprising third, disclosed the news to reporters post-race, his voice muffled by a face mask.
Lyles’ performance was a far cry from his typically dominant displays. Immediately after crossing the finish line, the athlete, who suffers from asthma, collapsed onto the track, a contrast to his usual celebratory demeanor. Medical personnel assisted the runner, who was wheeled off the stadium in a wheelchair.
Lyles’ condition raised questions about the decision to compete while infected and the potential implications for his health and performance.
The three-time world champion, who had seemed destined for gold, struggled to a time of 19.70 seconds, behind Letsile Tebogo and teammate Kenny Bednarek, significantly slower than his personal best.
The bronze medal holds a bittersweet taste for Lyles, who had aimed to replicate Usain Bolt’s historic sprint double. His future in the 4x100 relay remains uncertain as he recovers from the illness.
While the United States celebrated other victories, including gold medals for Tara Davis-Woodhall in the long jump and Grant Holloway in the 110-meter hurdles, as well as Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s world record-breaking performance in the 400-meter hurdles, Lyles’ ordeal dominated the narrative.
While the Paris Games were billed as a post-pandemic event, the persistent presence of COVID-19 has continued to disrupt the competition. The World Health Organization said that over 40 athletes so far have tested positive.
