Noah Lyles, despite a recent COVID-19 diagnosis and visible exhaustion, secured a bronze medal in the 200-meter final at the Stade de France but was later wheeled off the track in a wheelchair due to his deteriorating condition, Daily Caller reported.
Noah Lyles, a renowned sprinter for Team USA, won the bronze medal in the 200-meter final held at the Stade de France. Lyles' performance was notable as he competed despite having recently tested positive for COVID-19.
The 200-meter final saw Lyles complete the race in 19.62 seconds. His tenacity earned him third place, following behind Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo and fellow Team USA member Kenneth Bednarek.
However, the celebration was short-lived. Soon after crossing the finish line, Lyles was visibly exhausted and collapsed.
Medical personnel swiftly attended to the distressed athlete, and he was later transported off the track in a wheelchair.
This bronze medal adds to Lyles' impressive achievements, including his recent gold medal in the 100-meter final. His latest accomplishment was especially significant, as it made him the first Team USA athlete to win gold in that event in two decades.
Despite his success, Lyles faced significant challenges. He had woken up feeling unwell on Tuesday following his gold medal win, raising concerns about his health.
Lyles did not let his condition deter him from giving a commendable performance. “My first thought was not to panic, thinking I’ve been in worse situations,” he explained.
Among the concerned onlookers was his mother, Keisha Caine Bishop, who watched with trepidation as her son was wheeled off the track. The situation has raised questions about Lyles' ability to participate in the upcoming 4×100 relay.
Lyles has publicly expressed pride in his resilience. Reflecting on his bronze medal win, he shared, “I’ve never been more proud of myself for being able to come out here and getting a bronze medal.”
This sentiment presented a stark contrast to his feelings after winning a bronze medal at the previous Olympics, where he felt disappointment instead of pride.
As the athletic world watches keenly, the fate of Lyles' participation in the 4×100 relay remains undetermined. His health and recovery will be closely monitored in the coming days. Team USA, boosted by Lyles' contributions, will need to adapt depending on his condition. The athletic community remains hopeful for his speedy recovery.
Noah Lyles secured a bronze medal in the 200-meter final despite recent health setbacks, collapsing and needing medical assistance afterward. His notable recent achievements include a gold medal in the 100-meter final. Lyles' participation in the 4×100 relay remains uncertain as he battles illness and recovers from his exhaustive performance.