Noah Lyles Faces Setback at Olympic 200m Final Due to COVID-19

SAINT-DENIS, France (AP) — American sprinter Noah Lyles experienced a disappointing finish in the Olympic 200 meters final on Thursday, where he placed third behind Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo. Lyles, who was carted off the track in a wheelchair, was later diagnosed with COVID-19 just two days prior to the race. This marks the second consecutive Olympics where the virus has significantly impacted Lyles’ performance, as he also struggled during the Tokyo Games, where he secured a bronze medal amid challenging circumstances. Tebogo, 21, dominated the race, leading from start to finish and clocking in at 19.46 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in Olympic history. Kenny Bednarek followed closely, finishing with a silver medal at 19.62 seconds. Lyles, who had not lost a 200m race since the Tokyo Olympics, crossed the line in 19.70 seconds, unable to muster his usual strong finish. His recent victory in the 100m had raised expectations, but the illness hindered his performance in the final. Lyles had entered the Paris Games with high hopes, motivated by his previous bronze medal and the challenges he faced during the pandemic. However, after a disappointing semifinal where he finished second, he opted to skip his media obligations to seek medical attention. His coach initially assured that he was fine, but the reality of his condition became evident during the final, where he struggled to maintain his trademark speed.