Was Noah Lyles Faster than Usain Bolt at the Olympics?
Noah Lyles claimed the gold medal in the 100 meters at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking a historic return to the podium for the United States in this iconic event. With a time of 9.79 seconds, Lyles became the first American to win gold in the 100 meters since the Athens 2004 Games, delivering a standout performance in one of track and field's most anticipated events.
The race's conclusion was nail-biting, with Lyles edging out Jamaican Kishane Thompson by just five thousandths of a second. While Lyles achieved his personal best, his time only surpassed Usain Bolt's record from Rio 2016, which was set at 9.81 seconds. This highlights the fierce competition and the precision of Lyles' performance on the track.
The event, held at the Stade de France, was filled with suspense as the final result was verified. The stadium fell silent until it was confirmed that Lyles had secured first place, leading to an ecstatic celebration with his family and supporters. In addition to Lyles, Fred Kerley completed the podium for the U.S., taking home the bronze medal with a time of 9.81 seconds.
Throughout the competition, Lyles demonstrated not only his athletic prowess but also his distinctive personality. Known for his pre-race ritual involving a Yu-Gi-Oh! card, Lyles has proven to be an exceptional and charismatic athlete. His victory in the 100 meters not only reaffirms his status as one of the world's top sprinters but also marks a significant chapter in U.S. track and field history.
