Honoring Flo-Jo’s Fashion, Noah Lyles Fans Jump to Save Him From Sexist Comments: “His Body”

Whenever Flo-Jo hit the track, fans were buzzing about two things: what new record she’d smash and what she’d be wearing. Rocking those bold long nails and the iconic one-legged leotards, Florence Griffith Joyner didn’t just set records—she set trends that turned heads and raised the bar for track and field. Today, that same spirit lives on in athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and even crossover stars like LeBron James, Serena Williams, and Beyoncé, who bring their unique style to the game. And among today’s male track stars, one guy who’s paying homage to Flo-Jo’s bold fashion is Noah Lyles.

Noah Lyles has been catching eyes with his silver hair, strutting down runways for Hugo Boss, and rocking vibrant nail colors. When Lyles secured his spot for the Paris Olympics in the men’s 100m finals, he did it with style—a blazing red outfit to match his blazing performance. However, not everyone appreciated his bold statement. Some critics threw shade, questioning his style choices with sexist remarks. Just as he tears down the track, Lyles’ fans came out swinging in defense of the now two-time Olympian.

Noah Lyles’ US Olympic Trials style gets unnecessary hate

In an Instagram post by Team USA on June 23, 2024, they shared a three-post carousel from the 100m semi-finals of the 2024 US track and field trials. Noah Lyles blazed through the race, clocking in at 9.80 and securing his spot in the finals, where he clinched gold with a stellar 9.83 finish, setting a new world lead and booking his ticket to Paris. Lyles made a statement on the track in his fiery red tracksuit, the same one he unveiled alongside Snoop Dogg from a briefcase before the trials.

Before the race, he added to the theatrics by revealing another anime card and showing off his nails adorned with white and silver details, a pearl necklace, and braids decked out with white pearls. Fans flooded the comments section with applause for the 2023 World Champion, celebrating not only his lightning speed but also his fearless style. However, amidst the praise, one comment stood out: “Can’t say he ain’t fast… but, I just don’t understand the colorful nails on men. There’s something going on there.” In response, countless fans swiftly came to Lyles’ defense, rallying behind the three-time champion.

The Paris Olympics ready Lyles gets fans’ approval

Track and field fans who get Noah Lyles’ vibe wasted no time in calling out the hint of sexism in that comment. One fan hit back with, “It’s possible that what another man does with his body just isn’t meant for you to understand. Perhaps “He likes the way it looks” is all we need.” Another fan added, “Why are you so concerned with that? The man will do what he wants to express himself without approval and win,” echoing Lyles’ standout performances at the 2024 US Track and Field trials in the 100m.

Others showed love for Lyles’ style. One fan simply said, “Cool nails dude” while another shared, “EXODIAAA!!! Obliterate them,” in support of his pre-race card move. Noah Lyles isn’t just running fast; he’s setting trends and showing that being true to yourself is always a win. Reflecting on the overwhelming support Noah Lyles receives for both his track talent and distinctive style, what are your thoughts on his unique and bold fashion allure in the races? Share in the comments below!