In a thrilling display of speed and determination, world champion Noah Lyles clinched victory in the 100m final at the U.S. Olympic trials in Eugene, Oregon on Sunday, finishing with a time of 9.83 seconds. This win secures his spot at the upcoming Paris Games, where he aims to make a significant impact.
Lyles surged ahead midway through the race, overtaking early leaders to cross the finish line ahead of Kenny Bednarek, who clocked 9.87 seconds, and Fred Kerley, the Tokyo silver medalist, who finished in 9.88 seconds. Christian Coleman, the 2019 world champion, led early but ultimately placed fourth with a time of 9.93 seconds.
“Part of the plan,” Lyles commented after the race. “Might be a shock to everyone else but when you know the goal, you know the goal.”
Lyles is no stranger to ambition. Having won the sprint double at the world championships in Budapest last year, he is now setting his sights on achieving four gold medals in Paris—two individual events and two relays. This bold goal reflects his drive and commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on past disappointments, including finishing next to last in the 100m final at the trials three years ago and earning a bronze in the 200m at the Tokyo Olympics, Lyles acknowledged how these experiences have fueled his current success.
“If I didn’t get that third place in Tokyo, I wouldn’t have had that desire, I wouldn’t have had that fire burning,” he shared. “I wouldn’t have accomplished what I’ve accomplished in the past, and now we constantly look to the future with open eyes because anything can happen.”
Next on the horizon for Lyles is his signature event, the 200m, with opening heats scheduled to begin on Thursday. Fans around the world will be watching to see if he continues his impressive momentum on the road to Paris.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
