At the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, the world’s track and field stars once again converged for this biennial extravaganza, anticipating the upcoming Paris 2024 Games. On the opening day of the competition, all eyes were fixed on American 60-meter national champion Noah Lyles, who sought to claim the world title.
However, he faced stiff competition from his fellow USA teammate and world record holder Christian Coleman, who surged to the finish line, seizing the title and reaffirming his dominance in the 60-meter indoor men’s race. Despite falling short of Christian Coleman, Noah Lyles still garnered the respect and applause of the internet for a remarkable gesture he made after the race concluded.
Noah Lyles’ classy gesture at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships
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Following the 60-meter finals at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow 2024, Noah Lyles found himself in a post-race interview. Simultaneously, Canada’s Sarah Mitton secured the women’s shot put gold and stood atop the podium for the medal ceremony. Lyles exemplified profound respect for Canada’s national anthem during a medal ceremony following his 60-meter final race. As the stirring strains of the Canadian anthem filled the arena, the BBC sought to interview him.
Absolute respect #NoahLyles. The way he told he politely put the rude BBC interviewer in her place was refreshing. 👍 pic.twitter.com/dKNrcfxRVC
— Rick Joshua 🔴 (@fussballchef) March 1, 2024
However, Noah Lyles gracefully declined, recognizing the importance of honoring the anthem and the significance of the moment. His gesture resonated deeply with observers, who lauded Lyles for his unwavering display of sportsmanship and reverence. For this respectful act, he was applauded online by countless fans who praised his character.
How the internet reacted to this moment
Fans went to the social media platform X and lauded Noah Lyles for this respectful and wholesome gesture. One fan cheered him on and applauded him as a true class act.
Noah Lyles what a lovely thing to do to respect another nations national anthem. #noahlyles
— DigitalDotty (@digital_dotty) March 1, 2024
Another individual commended his exceptional character and sportsmanship.
Nice touch from Noah Lyles respectfully declining to be interviewed about his medal by the BBC whilst the Canadian national anthem was being played 👏
— John Duncan (@Newbattleatwar) March 1, 2024
One more person expressed immense respect for Noah Lyles and his acknowledgment of Canada’s Sarah Mitton and her country.
Huge respect to Noah Lyles respecting @SarahMitton2 receiving her Canadian national anthem and refusing to give an interview until the anthem had finish HUGE respect Noah!! 🫶🏻
— Bethan Lishman (@hammertime4660) March 1, 2024
Another shared admiration for Lyles’ decision not to speak over the Canadian national anthem.
Love that Noah Lyles said he wanted to respect Canada's national anthem while @BBCSport insisted of shoving a mic in his face and asking him questions.
Horrible to watch. Well done that man.— Dan (@DH_Utd) March 1, 2024
Yet another individual criticized the network for attempting to interview Lyles during such a solemn moment, commending Lyles for his respectful stance.
Such respect from Noah Lyles, refusing to speak over the Canadian national anthem.
It's a shame @BBCSport couldn't show the same level of respect to Noah himself.
— Harry Thomas (@teddyhendrix6) March 1, 2024
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Another person expressed how Noah Lyles earned their respect despite his loss.
Noah Lyles, respecting the Canadian anthem, such a class act #worldindoorchampionships
— Captain Sandy (@gempinkheart) March 1, 2024
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What are your thoughts on this Noah Lyles moment at the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow? Comment below!