Noah Lyles Wins Bronze In 200m Even After Being Diagnosed With Covid-19; Video Goes Viral - Watch

The Paris Olympics 2024 delivered a dramatic twist in the men’s 200m final on August 8, as USA sprinter Noah Lyles, despite being a favorite for gold, had to settle for bronze. His performance was overshadowed by an unexpected revelation: he competed while battling Covid-19. Noah Lyles entered the Paris Olympics 200m final as the leading contender, having previously secured victory in the 100m. However, in a surprising turn, Lyles finished third with a time of 19.70 seconds. Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo clinched the gold with an impressive 19.46 seconds, while Kenny Bednarek took the silver in 19.62 seconds. Lyles’ podium finish was remarkable given the circumstances. In a dramatic post-race scene, Lyles was seen being wheeled away from the track in a wheelchair, sparking concern among fans and analysts. It was later confirmed that he had tested positive for Covid-19, adding a complex layer to his performance.

Seen reports after the 200m that Noah Lyles had Covid.

Noah Lyles before the race: pic.twitter.com/OFO4vI18HQ

— Eric Njiru (@EricNjiiru) August 8, 2024

The Covid-19 Revelation: A Controversial Twist

Footage emerged of Lyles preparing for the race while wearing a surgical face mask, and USA Track and Field confirmed that he had competed despite being infected with the virus. This revelation has stirred controversy regarding the protocols and ethics of competing under such conditions.
Michael Johnson, former Olympic 400m record holder, voiced his concerns, stating, “Very bizarre. Covid is still a dangerous disease. Kenny Bednarek is a member of the 4x100m relay. It’s just bizarre. The whole thing is really weird.” Johnson questioned whether Lyles’ illness impacted his performance and the appropriateness of his participation.

Emotional Aftermath: Lyles’ Sportsmanship and Resilience

Despite his health challenges, Lyles demonstrated remarkable sportsmanship and resilience. Post-race, he was seen embracing his fellow American sprinter Bednarek, reflecting his dedication to the sport and camaraderie. Lyles’ ability to perform under such difficult circumstances highlights his exceptional determination.

The situation has prompted discussions about the balance between athlete safety and competitive integrity. While Lyles’ condition was managed to allow him to compete, the controversy raises important questions about health protocols and athlete well-being.

Analysis: Lyles’ Performance and Future Prospects

Noah Lyles’ bronze medal at the Paris Olympics underscores his extraordinary talent and tenacity. Competing with Covid-19 adds a significant dimension to his achievement, emphasizing his commitment to the sport despite facing considerable challenges. His performance, while affected by his illness, remains a testament to his skill and resilience.

As Lyles recovers, the focus will shift to his future performances and how he rebounds from this experience. His story from the Paris Olympics will be remembered for its dramatic twists and the resilience he demonstrated in overcoming one of the toughest challenges of his career.