
via Imago
200m mens final: Athletics August 08 2024: Noah Lyles United States of America competes during the 200m menÃââ s final on Day 13 of the Olympic Games, Olympische Spiele, Olympia, OS at Stade de France, Paris, France. Ulrik Pedersen/CSM. Credit Image: Â Ulrik Pedersen/Cal Media Paris France EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xx ZUMA-20240808_zma_c04_012.jpg UlrikxPedersenx csmphotothree279092

via Imago
200m mens final: Athletics August 08 2024: Noah Lyles United States of America competes during the 200m menÃââ s final on Day 13 of the Olympic Games, Olympische Spiele, Olympia, OS at Stade de France, Paris, France. Ulrik Pedersen/CSM. Credit Image: Â Ulrik Pedersen/Cal Media Paris France EDITORIAL USE ONLY Copyright: xx ZUMA-20240808_zma_c04_012.jpg UlrikxPedersenx csmphotothree279092
It seems this year Noah Lyles is on a quest to rile up as many fans as he can. First it was calling Sha’Carri Richardson “not the fastest,” then it was snarky remarks on the Jamaican track events and now the shots he took at the Grand Slam Track. Only Lyles can do this. But while all this was stirring, he made some comments, which the track fans are yet to digest. What he uttered was, “If a tree falls in the woods and nobody’s around to see it, did that tree fall?” What does it mean? Well Michael Johnson surely knows the answer to that
If Michael Johnson’s response is anything to go by, he’s making sure the world hears it loud and clear. It seems Michael Johnson, GST, Noah Lyles, and criticism are all going parallel. While GST is approaching, fans are excited about the new venture; still, the debates are not stopping at all. In the row of Grand Slam Track broadcasting, Lyles criticized the spreading of false information.
The former track and field star Michael Johnson again puts Noah Lyles under fire. Taking to X, Johnson wrote, “Peacock, The CW, NBC, Eurosport, TNT. I’m a damn lumberjack! I cut down all the trees in the woods and everybody heard them fall. Well, almost everybody,” Johnson fired back. It seems Noah got the answer to the question he made on his podcast.
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Peacock, The CW, NBC, Eurosport, TNT. I’m a damn lumberjack! I cut down all the trees in the woods and everybody heard them fall. Well almost everybody.
— Michael Johnson (@MJGold) March 7, 2025
As Grand Slam Track takes shape, the tension between two of the track’s biggest names is turning into a spectacle of its own—one fueled by bold claims, media rights, and a growing divide over the sport’s future. Johnson’s words showcase how he got one of the top broadcasters on board, and at one point there was nothing, and a sword was hanging over his head.
With live exclusivity in more than 40 areas, Discovery (WBD) negotiated a multi-year deal to broadcast competition throughout Europe and Asia. TNT Sports will provide coverage in the UK and Ireland, while Max and Discovery+ will broadcast live Grand Slam Track events. Stakes are high as GST is a highly anticipated track and field event with the motto to change the perspective for the sport.
And also to give more coverage to the sport and track athletes besides other championships. Amidst this digging at each other row, track and field fans know whom GST founder and organizer Michael Johnson is talking about.
What’s your perspective on:
Michael Johnson vs. Noah Lyles: Who's right about the future of track and field?
Have an interesting take?
Fans react to MJ’s cryptic comment and his ongoing debate with Lyles.
There’s never a dull moment when Michael Johnson (MJ) speaks. And his latest remarks have once again ignited debates across the track and field world. While he didn’t name names, fans are already speculating who he might be addressing. “Hmm, I wonder who MJ is talking about here,” as one fan commented on the post. One thing is clear—his comments have silenced the doubters, reinforcing his stance as one of the sport’s most respected voices. “MJ just put all the doubters in the bin,” one fan aptly summarized.
Of course, Noah Lyles remains at the center of discussions. Known for his bold takes and outspoken nature, the multiple-time world champion has never shied away from controversy. “Noah never shuts up! He’s a bridge burner,” a fan remarked, hinting at how his candid opinions often ruffle feathers. While Lyles’ confidence fuels his success, his critics believe his words sometimes overshadow his performances.
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Beyond individual clashes, the broader state of track and field remains a hot topic. Some athletes have voiced concerns about recent changes in the sport, but for many, the constant skepticism is tiring. “Some people just can’t stop complaining. It’s getting annoying now,” one fan expressed frustration over the never-ending debates. The sport is evolving, and while not every decision will be perfect, relentless criticism may not be the answer.
One of the most divisive topics remains World Athletics’ new initiatives, including GST. Despite its goal of elevating the sport, it has faced backlash from skeptics. Yet, as one fan pointed out, “Man, GST has to be one of the most interesting things as of late. Shame people can’t stop questioning even if good things happen to the sport.” The debate over track and field’s future continues, but whether Grand Slam Track is a step forward or a misstep, only time will tell.
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Debate
Michael Johnson vs. Noah Lyles: Who's right about the future of track and field?