- Matthew Hudson-Smith aspires to replicate the achievements of Noah Lyles
- The British 400 meters athlete Hudson-Smith once shared a home with Lyles in the USA
Matthew Hudson-Smith previously shared accommodation with Noah Lyles—now he aims to achieve the same level of success as his former roommate.
Since moving from the Midlands to train in Florida in 2017, the British 400 meters runner has fostered a close friendship with the American sprint sensation.
Hudson-Smith is set to kick off his Olympic journey at the Stade de France on Sunday evening, just before Lyles competes for gold in the 100m event.
The 29-year-old is optimistic that by the end of the Games in Paris, both he and Lyles will have much to celebrate.
‘We’ve been training together for years, and I even lived with him,’ Hudson-Smith shared, recalling the moment Lyles embraced him after he set a new European record in London last month.
Team GB’s Matthew Hudson-Smith is eager to emulate former house-mate Noah Lyles’ success
British 400 metres runner Hudson-Smith became close friends with Lyles in Florida
‘I’ve built a very strong bond with him and his brother Josephus. At one point, I was even referred to as “the third Lyles”.
‘I’ve witnessed all the dedication Noah puts in behind the scenes, and I take pride in his achievements. Although he can be a bit controversial, I know the genuine side of him. He’s a great person.
Hudson-Smith says that he is ready to impress and spoke of his improved maturity
‘He’s my guy, and I take pride in his accomplishments just as he does with mine. I will always support him. We both have our individual goals, and while what he is achieving is commendable, I am focused on carving out my own path to success.’
Having secured silver at last year’s World Championships, Hudson-Smith is considered the frontrunner for gold on Wednesday night, having clocked an impressive 43.74 seconds in London, faster than any of his competitors this year.
‘I’m prepared,’ he asserted. ‘To win, you have to take it from me. It’s been a long journey, but I believe that my maturity, growth, and being an overall well-rounded athlete have helped me become my best self.’
