Noah Lyles Reveals Positive COVID Test Days Before 200m Final at Paris Olympics
Noah Lyles revealed that he tested positive for COVID-19 just two days before finishing third in the 200-meter final at the Paris Olympics on Thursday night. Here’s a timeline of Lyles’ illness:
When did Noah Lyles know he had COVID?
Lyles reported that he entered quarantine immediately after testing positive on Tuesday morning. He went on to compete in the 200-meter semifinal on Wednesday, where he finished second. Following the semifinal, his coach mentioned that Lyles was “fine.” Despite his usual willingness to speak with the media, Lyles did not address reporters after the race.
As the 200 final approached, Lyles said he was feeling better and estimated he was about 90-95% ready when the race began. “I still wanted to run,” he stated after Thursday night’s event. “They said it was possible.”
What happened in his 200-meter race?
During the final, Lyles trailed Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo, who ultimately won the race. Known for his powerful closing speed, Lyles was unable to catch up this time. He finished third, collapsing onto the track after crossing the finish line. “To be honest, I knew if I wanted to come out here and win, I had to give everything I had from the get-go,” he explained. “I didn’t have any time to save energy. So that was kind of the strategy for today.”
After finishing, Lyles fell to his back, struggling to catch his breath for nearly 30 seconds before rising and asking for water.
Why was he allowed to run?
The U.S. track federation stated that they and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee adhered to all Olympic and CDC guidelines. “After a thorough medical evaluation, Noah chose to compete tonight,” the statement read. “We respect his decision and will continue to monitor his condition closely.”
In contrast to the strict COVID protocols during the Tokyo Olympics, which would have required immediate isolation, the current guidelines are more lenient. France has lifted many COVID restrictions, advising only self-isolation for those who test positive. The World Health Organization reported that 40 athletes at the Olympics had tested positive amid rising global cases.
What races does Lyles have left?
Lyles was expected to run the anchor leg of the 4×100 relay on Friday, aiming for a third gold medal in Paris. However, after the 200 final, he mentioned he would consult with his relay teammates before making a decision. “I want to be very honest and transparent, and I’m going to let them make the decision,” he noted, still feeling about 90-95% recovered.
However, early Friday morning, Lyles posted on Instagram: “I believe this will be the end of my 2024 Olympics,” indicating he would not be competing in the relay.
