Noah Lyles Takes the High Road in Jamaican Track and Field Rivalry After Being Trolled by Fans: “Hope He Stays Healthy”

Today in the US Olympic track and field trials, Noah Lyles secured an easy victory in the 200m event heat, clocking in at 20.10 seconds. This timing reflects the confidence he currently has in himself, the same that had earned him third place in the world-leading 100m timing list this season. Furthermore, his 9.83 seconds in the 100m secured him a berth at the Paris Olympics and an upper hand over many opponents. But did the timing defy the Jamaican arch-rivals? The fans have already trolled the reigning world champion on this ground. Now, the man of the hour himself had some comments to make.

The debate intensified after Kishane Thompson finished the 100m Jamaican trial event today in 9.82 seconds, just 0.01 seconds faster than Noah’s best performance this year. However, when asked to react to his arch-rival’s performance, the 26-year-old sprinter did not appear to be worried. Rather, he kept a calm demeanor and simply said, “All right. Nice. Let’s hope he stays healthy”. That brief message may not tell all the hidden statements. But unlike previous accounts, this time Noah Lyles did not breathe fire, commenting on his major opponents. However, a few days ago, he had remarked on several things about his opponents that could be taken into consideration this time as well. 

The track and field community felt a shock wave when Oblique Seville defeated the reigning 100m world champion in the Racer’s Grand Prix in Jamaica. On that day as well, the timing of the frontrunner remained 9.82 seconds, similar to Kishane Thompson’s timing today. However, after the unexpected defeat, Noah argued about some technical faults that allegedly slowed him down in the event. However, later, he praised the Jamaican powerhouse for his achievement. At the same time, he mentioned some truth. 

In his remark, the six-time world champion added, “There’s a difference from running in Jamaica to running at Olympics. I’ve seen how you handle your rounds. I study my competitors. I know what your weakness is. I know what your strengths are. I will be ready.” If Noah knows the nitty gritty about his rivals, then was he pointing toward Kishane Thompson’s fitness level at his comment? 

Is Noah Lyles concerned about Kishane Thompson’s fitness? 

Kishane Thompson’s today’s event has remained one of his first outings this season. In the previous season as well, he had remained absent in many events. However, his coach, Stephen Francis, let the reason slip in public. The veteran coach admitted that the prospect had an issue with his fitness. 

Not in just 2023, but in 2022 as well, the injury loomed over his chances to show up on the track regularly. That crisis encouraged Francis to come up with innovative ideas. Serving a few insights on that, he said, “It was always our intention for him to focus on running one-round races this year. Considering his previous struggles with injuries, we believed it would be best for him to showcase his talent in a controlled manner.” Such an approach did not let him enter the World Athletics Track and Field Championships as well. Yet, straightforward this year, Kishane gave a positive outlook on his fitness level. 

In one interview, he said,  “The plan for this year is to go harder than ever, and to stay healthy, and to show you guys what I can do”. Still, he remained missed in the major track and field meets this year. However, at least now he has come out with a bang. But Noah Lyles’ would give him a reason to ponder in the coming days.