As Noah Lyles faces a wave of criticism over his narrow victory, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe and sprinter Rai Benjamin have united to defend him. The controversy stems from Lyles’ dramatic win against Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson, who appeared to cross the finish line first by a hair’s breadth. Despite Thompson’s foot seemingly breaking the finish line first, international track and field rules dictate that the torso and head determine the winner.

Amid the uproar, Sharpe publicly responded to a Jamaican critic who reproached him for supporting Lyles. “Who’s going home with the gold?” Sharpe posted on X, challenging the focus on the narrow margin of victory. He emphasized the ongoing negativity towards Lyles, who recently ended a 20-year Jamaican dominance in track and field. The intervention by Sharpe and Benjamin highlights the hostility Lyles has faced and calls for a more supportive atmosphere in athletics. 

Shannon Sharpe slams fans’ negative reactions to Noah Lyles’ victory

Noah Lyles has faced significant criticism from many Jamaican fans. In response, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe discussed relay team strategy on the Nightcap podcast on YouTube. Sharpe said, “Give me a consistent mid-44; I can live with that,” addressing the expectations for relay team members. He went on to detail his lineup strategy, explaining, “I’m gonna let the second leg be Quincy because I need him. If I don’t have space, I need him to open up for me. Right, and then I’ll go to Bailey and let Bri bring it home.” Sharpe’s comments highlight the importance of individual performance and team dynamics in achieving success on the track.

Sharpe also drew attention to how Rai Benjamin has supported Noah Lyles, who has been a prime target of criticism despite his recent achievements.

“I just can’t… Rob Benjamin said on the hopes that more American fans can get behind and support Noah LS,” he further remarked, underscoring the importance of fan support. He did not hesitate to point out how Lyles’ journey to the Paris Olympics was not without challenges, noting Lyles’ struggle with depression in 2021.

On the topic of criticism, Shannon noted that Lyles has been “doing things and speaking things into fruition,” but still encounters this much negativity. Continuing that, he shared his own experience with fans’ criticism, saying, “I got some hate too… people saying if I don’t win, they’re going to be on my head. It’s just kind of sad.” 

Through this, he highlighted the importance of fans supporting athletes’ mental health instead of tearing them down. Sharpe also compared national support for athletes, stating, “What Jamaican you think they’re going to treat and say my least favorite Jamaican is… which one?” pointing out that other countries always rally behind their athletes.

However, Sharpe urged fans to compare how they support their athletes to countries like France and Great Britain. Rai Benjamin has stepped up to support Noah Lyles, urging fans to stop the backlash. He hopes this will inspire a shift toward encouraging and supporting athletes. As the controversy unfolds, Benjamin’s call highlights the need for greater respect and positivity in athletics.

Rai Benjamin took a stand for Noah Lyles and asked fans to stop backlashing him

After Noah Lyles’ unexpected win, social media erupted with claims that he was not a rightful winner. One fan wrote on X, “They robbed Kishane,” expressing immense frustration. Others suggested a conspiracy, alleging that the win was rigged in Lyles’ favor. To counter the backlash, Rai Benjamin posted a message addressing the angry fans. He stated, “I want to see him have more American support. That’s why we’re here… Having that support from your fellow countrymen and getting people in the country behind you is important because everyone else from every country supports their athletes.”

Benjamin emphasized that Noah Lyles’ outspoken nature is backed by his performance and called for more athletes to support each other. This isn’t the first time he has defended Lyles. Previously, after joking about having “Jamaican insider information” on a Track World News podcast, Rai Benjamin urged fans to stop trolling Noah Lyles. He posted on X, “Noah is an outspoken individual. We know that, y’all know that. He voiced an OPINION. It isn’t FACT. And subconsciously and consciously a lot of you are using him for clicks. We’re a few days away from competing.” Rai Benjamin’s comments stress the need for a supportive culture among American fans.

Shannon Sharpe also weighed in, appreciating Benjamin’s stance. Sharpe said, “Don’t preach mental health and then go do that,” criticizing the hypocrisy of fans who claim to support mental well-being but criticize athletes like Lyles. Both Rai Benjamin and Noah Lyles earned podium finishes at the 2022 World Athletics Championships, with Lyles winning gold in the 200m and Benjamin taking silver in the 400m. Their mutual respect and support are evident. Will Sharpe and Benjamin’s comments drive positive change in how American fans support their athletes? Share your thoughts in the comments!