Noah Lyles stands as a true world champion of the United States. Throughout his track and field career, he’s secured an Olympic medal, an impressive seven World Championship medals, and much more, all while proudly representing his country on the global stage.

Following nearly every major race, Lyles has proudly raised “The Star-Spangled Banner,” a proof of his love for his country. However, despite this patriotism on two separate occasions, the “3-Peat” star has revealed the challenges and obstacles that come with being an American.

Noah Lyles addresses racism as an athlete

In an interview with The Times, Noah Lyles peeled back the layers of his journey from a wheezy, asthmatic kid facing bullying to now setting out on his second Olympic journey. Amidst the conversation, a moment stood out when the topic of racism was broached. During the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where Noah earned a bronze medal, there was significant attention on combating racism, particularly following events like the killing of George Floyd in the summer of 2020.

This focus was evident both in public discourse and within sports. However, Noah Lyles shared that although some things were done to address racism, it often felt like a temporary trend. People were really into it at the time, but now they’ve moved on to other things, while the underlying problems remain unfixed. He then even opened up about having complicated feelings about representing the U.S. in sports.

The 26-year-old Noah Lyles shared, “I love being an American. I love that I get to go out and run for the US. But there are times when you don’t want to be an American too, especially being a black man because you’re not treated with the same respect.” He further shared that, though people talked more openly about racial issues and injustices, he still saw the same kinds of problems recurring with no recourse.

Lyles said, “I still see the same old videos, the same old crimes and the same old injustices. It’s pretty much as it was.” As we ponder the revelations from the 2023 World Champion, it also sheds light on Noah Lyles’ ongoing experiences and shows that these sentiments are not unfamiliar to him.

Lyles’ struggle to love America- MAGA much?

Noah Lyles strongly believes that the U.S. is the best in the world when it comes to sports and feels proud to be part of that success. However, his view changes when it comes to life outside of sports. In an interview, Lyles described his feelings as “bittersweet.” While he is proud to be American and contribute to its sporting achievements, he also struggles with being a black man in the U.S. due to the challenges and injustices faced by people of color.

Noah Lyles said, “It’s hard to love the country that sometimes doesn’t love you back.” Although he didn’t give specific examples of the challenges faced by black Americans, he shared that he has faced tough times himself, even considering quitting his sport. As Noah Lyles and numerous other American athletes of color prepare to represent their country at the Paris Olympics, his words resonate loudly, shedding light on the hurdles even our icons face and underscoring an imperative need for equality and change. What are your thoughts on Noah Lyles’ poignant reflections? Share your comments below!