Usain Bolt dominated the Olympics like no one ever did, doing more than just running. He reached new heights, shattering world records in the 200, 100, and  4 × 100-meter relay events. His 8x gold medals from the Olympics highlight his incomprehensible speed. He solidified his legacy in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics by collecting the 100 and 200-meter crowns in consecutive years. Taking the story forward, now, is the American sprinter Noah Lyles, who is preparing for a bold mission: to shatter Usain Bolt’s legendary records in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

According to Lyles’s outstanding accomplishments on the track, the 26-year-old has already established a reputation for himself. Noah Lyles topped in the 100m US Olympic trials and sealed his place at the forthcoming Games in Paris. He had a moment in Eugene, Oregon, matching his personal best time of 9.83 seconds. However, his current goal is to beat the renowned Jamaican sprinter. “Yeah, why not… that’s my plan.” Lyles asserted confidently in a recent interview.

In his own words, Lyles has the mantra for Bolt-like success. He claims to possess the essential ingredients to raise track and field’s prominence in the US and smash milestones alike. “I have the personality, I have the speed, I have the showmanship,” Lyles says. “I have the marketing mindset. I’m willing to be uncomfortable.” His approach to pushing limits certainly distinguishes him from competitors.

The American sprinter aspires to transform track and field alongside winning races completely. There is more to Lyles’ strategy than just practice. The foundation of his approach is his marketing mentality and his readiness to accept discomfort. He interacts with followers on social media, makes audacious fashion selections, and has an open personality. Just as crucial as Lyles’ speed on the track is his visibility off it. But, the primary goal to break the records of Bolt remains constant.

Noah Lyles’ thought towards the “World’s Fastest Man”

In track and field, the 100-meter race has traditionally been considered the greatest test. The world record holder is dubbed the ‘World’s Fastest Man’ for a reason. With the recent successes, Noah Lyles is determined to firmly assert this position. Lyles became the fastest man in the world when he set a personal record in the 100 meters with a time of 9.83 seconds in the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, the previous year. “I’ve always known that I was the world’s fastest man, but now you guys know it,” claimed Lyles.

Moreover, Usain Bolt’s feats are mirrored by Lyles’ dual success in Budapest, where he won the 100 and 200 meters. Lyles, on the other hand, wants to surpass Bolt’s records, not merely match them. At the Olympics in Paris, he wants to take home 4x gold medals. “Why four?” He questioned himself in a conversation. “There have been multiple doubles, not a lot, but there have been plenty. I can grab three but Bolt has done that.” These words make him a standout candidate for Paris who is focused. Bolt has undoubtedly achieved a lot, but Lyles is still in search of gold.

The Paris Olympics start in less than a month now, and it could be Lyles’ crowning event if he breaks the records. Do you think Noah Lyles could do so? Well, time will tell. Share your take in the comments below.