The track and field community is in a firestorm right now, not on the track but across social media. Ever since Netflix launched its first season of the SPRINT docuseries on July 2nd, it has been a rollercoaster of reviews. While receiving praise, it has also faced much flak for putting all its eggs in one basket with its heavy focus on top American track stars like Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson, and Gabby Thomas leading up to the 2023 World Championships. Fans voiced frustration, saying, “Noah Lyles gets on my nerves.” One more added, “Why US Olympics trying to make him a thing”. Even the 2022 American World Champion joined in with a similar view about the documentary’s focus.

Fred Kerley, who was the reigning world champion before the 2023 World Championships, made waves by critiquing his minimal screen time in the series. He voiced his discontent on social media, lamenting, “That show is not about sprinting.” As the spotlight increasingly centered on figures like Lyles and Richardson in subsequent episodes, Kerley called the series nothing more than a “YouTube doc.” Even Fred Kerley’s fans chimed in, with one noting, “Crazy they waited till episode 5 to introduce you to the show.” Well, with so much drama, is it possible Noah Lyles won’t chime in? Well, he did with much savage.

Noah Lyles sharply tweeted on X to all the haters with a confident reply: “Ight Twitter, y’all too negative for me right now. I’ll catch y’all after the Olympics.” True to his word, Lyles aims to bring home four gold medals in Paris, determined to silence his critics with performances worth their weight in gold.

Well, it seems Noah Lyles is certainly living up to expectations. Earlier this month at the trials, he shattered records with a blazing performance in the 200 meters, clocking in at an impressive 19.53 seconds. This not only secured the fastest time of the year but also broke Michael Johnson’s 28-year-old trials record of 19.66 seconds. Days before that, Lyles checked off the first box on his Paris checklist with a 9.83 seconds in the 100 meters, matching his personal best and tying for the fifth fastest time in meet history. It isn’t just him who is facing backlash over the Netflix docuseries; even Sha’Carri Richardson is facing criticism.

After Noah Lyles, Sha’Carri Richardson and Shericka Jackson at odds

Track and field enthusiasts, particularly those who support Jamaica’s athletic teams, find themselves divided over Sha’Carri Richardson’s part in Netflix docuseries. The supremely talented sprinter has reignited the longstanding rivalry between Jamaica and the USA as the 2024 Paris Olympics draw near, drawing attention to her anticipated clash with Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson. As both are talented athletes who have qualified for the Paris Olympics in the 100m event, it’s noteworthy that both have achieved a personal best of 10.65 seconds in the 100m sprint.

The tension increased when a user named “Amber J” tweeted accusing Richardson of being “manipulative and disingenuous.” This tweet sparked controversy, highlighting the ongoing competition and differences between Richardson and Jackson, fueled by their achievements, personalities, and interactions with other athletes. Many followers resonated with Amber J’s tweet.” This documentary shows the personal and athletic journeys of Olympic competitors like Richardson, Jackson, and Noah Lyles, though Richardson’s portrayal has particularly stirred controversy among Jackson’s supporters in Jamaica.

It will be intriguing to see who makes a name for themselves at the Paris Olympics and really makes their supporters count! It’s a golden opportunity for athletes to shine and leave their footprint on the world stage. Drop a comment if you’re on board!