Noah Lyles Competes Despite Positive Covid-19 Test
American sprinter Noah Lyles made headlines after confirming that he tested positive for Covid-19 earlier this week but chose to compete in Thursday night’s 200-meter race regardless. Despite feeling “really horrible” on Tuesday morning, Lyles decided to hydrate and isolate before taking to the track. In an interview with NBC, Lyles shared, “I knew it was more than just being sore from the 100-meter race,” as he discussed his diagnosis and the challenges he faced.
Lyles Reflects on His Olympic Journey
In an Instagram post early Friday morning, Lyles expressed a bittersweet sentiment about his Olympic experience. “I believe this will be the end of my 2024 Olympics. It is not the Olympic I dreamed of but it has left me with so much joy in my heart,” Lyles wrote, acknowledging the unexpected twist in his journey. Despite the setbacks, Lyles remained proud of his performance, especially after securing a bronze medal in his signature event.
A Tough Battle: Lyles Finishes Third in the 200-Meter Race
The news of Lyles’ positive Covid-19 test came shortly after he suffered a surprising defeat in the 200-meter race. Known for his dominance in this event, Lyles finished third, unable to outpace Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and fellow American Kenneth Bednarek, who claimed the gold and silver medals respectively. Lyles’ performance, however, quickly became a secondary story as he collapsed on the track after crossing the finish line, leading to immediate medical attention.
Health Scare: Lyles Discusses His Condition Post-Race
After the race, Lyles described the physical toll Covid-19 took on him. “I was quite light-headed after that race. Shortness of breath, chest pain,” he shared, admitting that his condition impacted his performance. However, Lyles emphasized his pride in competing despite the challenges, saying, “I’m more proud of myself than anything, coming out here to get a bronze with Covid.” This determination showcases Lyles’ resilience in the face of adversity.
Olympic Dreams Altered: Lyles’ Ambitions in Question
Lyles entered the Paris Olympics with hopes of winning multiple gold medals, especially after his narrow victory in the 100-meter race earlier in the week. His energy and confidence were palpable as he prepared for the 200-meter race, but the effects of Covid-19 took a toll. Lyles acknowledged that while he felt closer to 90-95% on race day, the infection forced him to conserve energy, impacting his overall performance.
Support from the USOPC: Lyles’ Decision to Compete Backed
The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) supported Lyles’ decision to compete after his positive Covid-19 test. Kate Hartman, the USOPC’s chief external affairs officer, stated, “Our primary commitment is to ensure the safety of Team USA athletes while upholding their right to compete.” Lyles shared that only a few people were aware of his diagnosis, as the team wanted to avoid panic and allow other athletes to focus on their own performances.
Competitors React: Tebogo’s Observations of Lyles
Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo, who won the 200-meter race, noticed Lyles’ unusual behavior before the event. “During the warmups and in the cold room, he was just there by himself,” Tebogo remarked, noting the sprinter’s isolation. Tebogo, however, did not suspect Covid-19 as the cause, attributing Lyles’ demeanor to perhaps having an off day. The revelation of Lyles’ condition post-race added a new layer of respect for his determination.
Covid-19’s Shadow on the Paris Olympics
Lyles’ positive test is part of a broader context of Covid-19’s lingering impact on the Paris Olympics. Other athletes, including members of Australia’s women’s water polo team and UK swimmer Adam Peaty, also tested positive for the virus. While the global public health emergency has ended, the resurgence of Covid-19 in various parts of the world, including among athletes, underscores the ongoing challenges the pandemic poses. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health organizations continue to provide guidance to ensure the safety of those involved in the Games.(jilibet)