American sprint star Noah Lyles has revealed that he competed in the 200m final at the 2024 Paris Olympics while battling COVID-19.
The unexpected news came after Lyles finished third in the race, behind Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and fellow American Kenneth Bednarek.
Lyles collapsed on the track immediately after the race, requiring medical attention. He was later taken away in a wheelchair.
The shocking scenes sparked concern among fans, but the subsequent revelation of his COVID-19 diagnosis provided context for his performance.
Before race: 🥳🤪😜
After Race:👩🦽🤢
All the sudden, he has covid and a wheel chair
Arrogant with excuses 🤡
Noah Lyles is a clown https://t.co/OOXmURFVrF pic.twitter.com/pW2vPAWTWZ
— Brandon (@clickthatfollow) August 8, 2024
The announcement underscores the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, even as the world emerges from its grip.
Despite the adversity, Lyles managed to secure a bronze medal, adding to his 100m gold which he secured on Sunday.