Renowned for his dominance in the 100m and 200m, Noah Lyles is on a quest to secure medals across four track distances this year. In an interview with World Athletics’ “Noah Lyles plays On The Cards” segment, he outlined his ambitious goal of claiming Olympic honors in the 400m, 200m, 4x100m, and 4x400m events for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. With this aspiration driving him, the 26-year-old found himself on the final day of the 2024 World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, competing in the men’s 4x400m relay final for Team USA.

Noah Lyles ran the third leg for the USA team; however, despite his efforts, he fell short of securing another gold, and ultimately, the team finished in second place. Belgium’s team, anchored by Alexander Doom, won the gold medal by beating Team USA, who earned a silver medal. This prompted disbelief and criticism within the track community over what was perceived as an unfair decision to include Lyles in the event in the first place at the World Indoors.

Noah Lyles’ performance at the 4x400m relay finals at World Indoors called unfair

In a post on X by Track Spice, the account highlighted Noah Lyles’ impressive performance as the 2023 world champion, noting his record-breaking 3rd leg in the 4×400 with 45.68s. However, the account also expressed disapproval, stating that Lyles should not have taken Trevor Bassitt’s earned spot, deeming it “pure politics.”

Despite Bassitt’s strong qualifying splits of 46.30, he was not included in the final roster, a decision that stirred controversy among track fans. Lyles, who was added to the roster, cited his readiness and ambition to pursue four golds at the Olympics as a driving factor. However, this decision did not sit well with many track enthusiasts, who voiced their discontent online over the exclusion of Trevor Bassitt.

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How track fans reacted to the decision and Team USA’s silver win

X was soon inundated with posts from irate track fans expressing their dissatisfaction with Noah Lyles’ performance in the men’s 4x400m relay final at the World Indoor Championships. Many attributed Team USA’s silver medal and Belgium’s gold victory to Lyles’ perceived lack of experience in the event. One fan lamented how Lyles’ performance lacked luster and failed to impress, contrasting it with the potential intrigue Trevor would have brought.

Another frustrated track enthusiast exclaimed that Lyles was given an opportunity but didn’t deliver, firmly closing the case.

Criticism continued with remarks and sarcastic comments about his unexpected silver medal haul.

Some went as far as accusing Lyles of costing the USA the gold, expressing a sense of vindication.

One fan also jokingly shared how Trevor Bassitt would have reacted to the situation, adding a funny GIF.

However, amidst the criticism, some fans applauded Noah Lyles for his immense effort, acknowledging that he had done his part. One fan summed it up simply:

What are your thoughts and POV about this discussion and decision? Comment below!