Noah Lyles definitely knows how to back up his words.
The 27-year-old sprinter made history by becoming the first American to secure gold in the men’s 100-meter event since Justin Gatlin achieved the feat back in 2004.
Lyles clinched victory in a thrilling photo finish, winning by a mere five-thousandths of a second, marking his first Olympic gold medal.
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Noah Lyles of Team United States celebrates winning the gold medal after competing in the men’s 100-meter final at the Olympic Games in Paris on Aug. 4, 2024. (Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
Lyles is widely recognized for his vibrant personality and his ability to express his emotions openly; prior to the opening ceremony, he adorned his nails with the word “ICON,” showcasing his confidence (walking the walk after talking the talk).
However, many may not be aware of the challenges he has faced, which he has turned into a source of motivation for others.
“I have asthma, allergies, dyslexia, ADD, anxiety, and depression. But I want you to know that what you struggle with does not determine what you can achieve. Why Not You!” Lyles shared on Sunday evening (or early Monday morning in Paris).
Lyles finished the race in 9.79784 seconds, achieving a personal best. Upon seeing the official result, he exclaimed, “America, I told you, I got this!” Remarkably, he had the slowest reaction time at the start and was in last place at the 40-meter mark.
This victory marked the fifth gold medal for the American team on that day, following wins by golfer Scottie Scheffler, cyclist Kristen Faulkner, swimmer Bobby Finke, and the women’s 4×100 medley relay team.
Noah Lyles of Team United States competes in the men’s 100-meter final at the Olympic Games in Paris on Aug. 4, 2024. (Hector Vivas/Getty Images)
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Lyles is now setting his sights on the 200-meter event, as he has expressed his “dream goal” to shatter Usain Bolt’s world record of 19.19 seconds, as well as the 4×100-meter relay.
Track legend Carl Lewis recently told Fox News Digital that the sport “needs” Lyles to shine at these games.
“I believe the sport requires a champion like him. He’s the defending champion and currently the fastest man in the world. We need someone for fans to rally around. He fits that role perfectly, and I’m thrilled about it,” Lewis remarked in an interview with Fox News Digital.
Noah Lyles of Team United States celebrates winning the gold medal after competing in the men’s 100-meter final at the Olympic Games in Paris on Aug. 4, 2024. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
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“I believe that track performs better when there’s a superstar. If Noah secures victory, it would also elevate the sport’s status. Instead of wondering who might win, fans will say, ‘I want him to win’ or ‘I hope he doesn’t.’ They will feel a connection to either support or oppose someone, which creates a heightened level of intensity. Historically, sports have flourished when certain individuals have dominated the scene.”
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