Let’s get this out of the way: if you dislike Noah Lyles, you’re a dork. Yes, I said it. Dork. And before you grab your pitchforks, let’s take a moment to explore why disliking the man puts you in the same category as people who argue that pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza – which it does, and it is delicious, just let people like things.
First off, let’s talk accomplishments. Noah Lyles is not just fast—he’s fast fast. We’re talking about a guy who ran a blistering 19.31 in the 200 meters, making him the third fastest in history over that distance. Let that sink in. Faster than your coffee brewing on a Monday morning, faster than your Wi-Fi connection when you actually need it, and definitely faster than those people who claim Usain Bolt’s records will never be touched (legit argument there though).
Lyles has racked up numerous gold medals, both in the World Championships, numerous Diamond League titles, and is now an Olympic gold medalist. His consistency, especially in the 200 meters, is a testament to his discipline, talent, and an unfathomable number of hours spent in training while most of the dorks in the comments are going to start heavy-breathing thinking about that walk to fridge in the commercial break. The guy is a superstar, plain and simple.
Criticisms (Or: What the Dorks Will Bring Up)
But of course, no one is perfect. Even Michael Jordan had that stint with the Wizards. One of the main criticisms leveled at Lyles is his brash personality. He’s not afraid to speak his mind, and sometimes, his confidence can come off as a bit…much. He’s been known to celebrate before he crosses the finish line (which, to be fair, he almost always does first – and we are here for every time). Some see this as arrogance. But really, what’s wrong with a little self-belief? A sport that has time and time again let the next generation down by disqualifying excited kids after winning a race in their state championship could use a little pressure to let the celebrations roll, and we need to get behind it, yet I digress.
Lyles has also been criticized for his involvement in activities outside of track and field, like his role in and desire for fashion. Some track purists believe he should focus solely on running. But to them, I say: ever heard of a multi-hyphenate? The man has layers, like an onion, or maybe a parfait. And why shouldn’t he explore his other passions? It’s 2024, people. Let the man live.
And let’s not forget that he stirred up some controversy in 2023 by making a comment about NBA players calling themselves “world champions.” Sure, it ruffled a few feathers, but let’s be real: he wasn’t exactly wrong, was he? The backlash was more about people not liking their bubbles burst than it was about Lyles being out of line.
Now, let’s discuss why Lyles is great for the sport, and why those who dislike him are missing the bigger picture. Track and field has long been a sport that struggles with mainstream appeal. It’s often overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of other sports like football and basketball. Lyles brings charisma, flair, and a much-needed dose of swagger to the track. He’s the guy who can put butts in seats, and makes the meet a spectacle, an event.
Lyles has also been open about his mental health struggles, which is crucial in a sport where athletes often feel immense pressure to perform. His candidness helps to destigmatize conversations around mental health, making him not just a role model in terms of athletic prowess, but in personal resilience as well. You want more? He and brother Josephus started a non-profit serving youth with health and wellness programs: the Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation.
So, here’s the deal: if you dislike Noah Lyles, you’re missing out on the full spectrum of what makes sports—and life, for that matter—interesting. You’re stuck in the past, longing for athletes to be humble to the point of invisibility.
Lyles is a modern athlete for a modern era—confident, multi-talented, and unafraid to be himself. You don’t have to love every decision he makes or every word he says, but if you can’t appreciate what he brings to the sport, then I’m sorry, but you’re just being a dork. And nobody wants to be a dork, right?
