Noah Lyles Competes After Testing Positive for COVID-19

Noah Lyles, the American sprinter and 100-meter Olympic champion, tested positive for COVID-19 just two days before competing in the 200-meter final at the Paris Olympics. Despite experiencing symptoms and quarantining, he chose to participate, finishing third in the race behind Botswana's Letsile Tebogo. Lyles admitted that he felt fatigued and lightheaded during the competition but was determined to run, stating he was about 90-95% ready at race time. After crossing the finish line, Lyles collapsed and required medical assistance, highlighting the physical toll the illness took on him. The U.S. track federation confirmed that all health protocols were followed, allowing Lyles to compete after a medical evaluation. His decision to keep his COVID status private was strategic, as he did not want to give competitors an advantage.