“Y’all Like Puppets”: Furious Fred Kerley Slams USATF Over Unfair Decision for World Indoor Championships

The journey to the Paris Olympics isn’t a smooth one, and its challenges have become more evident in the past two days. As the World Indoor Championships progresses into its third day in Glasgow, Scotland, the competition intensifies, with stakes high as it serves as a gateway to Paris. As it entered its third and final day, the spotlight was taken by the event’s 4x400m split race as Noah Lyles was also part of the event.

Noah Lyles’ surprising decision to add the 4x400m relay to his already demanding lineup of events at Paris 2024 initially appeared whimsical to some. Yet, any scepticism was swiftly shattered during today’s men’s 4x400m relay final. Despite his relative inexperience in the 400m, Lyles demonstrated extraordinary skill and determination on the track. Despite Noah Lyles giving his all and posting an impressive time of 45.67, the fastest third leg, he kept America in the lead heading into the final but couldn’t win the race. However, it appears Fred Kerley, a U.S.A. track and field athlete was not pleased with the situation as the American team included Lyles with zero experience in such a race.

Lyles’s valiant effort in World Indoor Championship was overshadowed by controversy

Noah Lyles’s a commendable performance in the third leg, he handed over the baton in the lead to Chris Bailey. Yet, despite the valiant effort, Lyles had to settle for his second silver medal of the weekend, as Belgium’s Alexander Doom surged ahead to claim victory in a thrilling finish, leaving Bailey narrowly behind at the line. Amidst this, the spotlight remained on the unwavering support for Lyles from the American, prompting Fred to voice his frustration on X. Fred stated, ‘Y’all play favoritism like mf. Y’all like puppets. For sure, yes men.‘ This all unfolded after Noah was included in the team, despite lacking experience in such races. Additionally, several athletes, such as Kenny Bednarek, who had previously specialized in the 400m, desired to participate, but were overlooked in favour of Noah Lyles.

In a follow-up tweet, Fred added, “Man I tell you last 3 year we been asking to be in that ish fuck that Olympic storyline shit yall puppets no in between either.”These remarks underscore the simmering discontent among athletes who feel sidelined or overlooked in the larger narrative of competitive sports.

Read More: Adidas Opens a Box of Memories to Support Noah Lyles at World Indoor Championships

After the match concluded, Cathal Beddehy reported a post on X where Noah was questioned about Fred’s comment. Noah’s response was blunt and bold, as he remarked, “He could be here, but he ain’t. If he’s mad, he should come out here.” This assertive reply encapsulated Noah’s confidence and defiance in the face of criticism.

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