There are big races, and then there are the Olympics. But just before that, Noah Lyles was preparing for his debut Diamond League Series race of the 2024 season in Monaco. As the Olympic bronze medallist in the 200m, he was all set to hit the ground running at the prestigious Stade Louis II. However, weeks before the Paris Games, Lyles threw fans a curveball by announcing his withdrawal. Chris Chavez broke the news on X, stating, “Noah Lyles has pulled out of the Monaco Diamond League where he was set to compete in the 200m.” This race was set to start in just 2 days on July 12th, leaving fans and pundits wondering what led to the eleventh-hour change of plans.

Chavez further said about Lyles, who issued the following statement: “I’m sorry to announce that I’ve withdrawn from this Friday’s Meeting Herculis EBS in Monaco. The meet is one of my favorites to compete in, and Monaco is one of my favorite places that my career has taken me to.” He also mentioned that he and his team are pleased with how he performed at the US Olympic Trials in Eugene. To better prepare for the Paris Games, they have decided to focus on training at their Florida base. As a result, Lyles will not be participating in a competition this Friday.

Lyles was the clear favorite for the 200m. Having dominated the season with a leading time of 19.53 seconds set at the US Olympic Trials last month, making him the fastest man in the world over the distance. Additionally, he ranks as the fourth fastest this year over the 100m, clocking a best of 9.83 seconds, also achieved during the US trials. But what are his plans further?

Lyles is ready to hit the ground running at the London Games Diamond League on 20th July 2024, with organizers having already penciled him in. This event is crucial for him as it’s the lead-up to Paris 2024, just six days before the Opening Ceremony. With his current form in the spotlight, do you reckon he’s got what it takes to carry the flag for Team USA on the grand stage in Paris?

Noah Lyles secures fourth U.S. title in the 200 meters

Lyles secured his fourth U.S. title in the 200 meters with a stellar performance of 19.53 seconds in June ending at the Olympic Trials, setting a new record for the Trials. He has further enhanced his credentials with this new record in addition to earning a place in the 100 meter event at the upcoming Paris Olympics. Renowned for his performance, in the 200 meters Lyles currently holds the record at 19.31 achieved in 2022, and has demonstrated remarkable consistency and strength throughout this season.

As a three-time champion, in the 200-meter event at the World Championships, he is aiming to achieve another victory in Paris following his win in Budapest last year, where he excelled in the 100, 200, and 4×100 meter relay races. Additionally, he has shown interest in competing in the 4×400 meter relay highlighting his versatility and drive for success at the Games. Following his performances at the Trials Lyles is now widely seen as the contender for both the 100 and 200 meters events, in Paris.

Does Lyles have the potential to outshine his competition in the 100 meters, including rivals, like Fred Kerley and Kenny Bednarek from the US  as well as formidable opponents such as Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson and Oblique Seville? With his form and past achievements, can he bring glory to America on the stage once more?