Despite testing positive for COVID-19 and battling a high fever, sprinter Noah Lyles secured a bronze medal in the men's 200-meter final with a personal best time.
After falling short of his dream to win gold and break the world record in the men's 200-meter final, Noah Lyles collapsed on the track, shocking viewers who witnessed the culmination of his Olympic journey. However, an astonishing revelation emerged when Lyles' coach, Lance Brauman, disclosed that the sprinter had competed in the race with a fever of 102 degrees.
Despite his debilitating condition, Lyles managed to secure the bronze medal, finishing with a personal best time of 19.31, the third-fastest time ever recorded in the event. "To get a bronze medal in 19.70 with a temperature of about 102, that wasn't too bad," said Brauman. "I mean, he was sick. People are going to say whatever they want, and that's fine, but the dude was sick."
Noah Lyles' Olympian Feat: Competing with a 102-Degree Fever
Lyles' astounding accomplishment came amidst a whirlwind of events. He was tested positive for COVID-19 two days before the race, a devastating blow to his Olympic aspirations. Brauman described Lyles as "distraught" upon learning the news. "He said, 'I can't do it. I can't do this.' It was just heartbreaking," Brauman recalled.
Despite the setback, Lyles remained determined to compete. He endured the race with an unbearable fever, asthma, and the knowledge of his positive COVID-19 status. His resilience and commitment are a testament to his unyielding spirit.
Noah Lyles' Olympian Feat: Competing with a 102-Degree Fever
Lyles' physical struggles were not his only hurdles. Before the Olympics, he made a conscious effort to prioritize the 100-meter final, historically his weaker event. This strategic move was part of his plan to step out of his comfort zone and improve his 200-meter time.
Through physiotherapy and balance training, Lyles strengthened his core and leg muscles, aligning his ligaments and muscles for optimal speed and efficiency. He admitted that the first 100 meters of his 200-meter sprint had been his weakest point before 2023. His dedication to improving this aspect of his running paid off in the 100-meter final, where he clinched his first Olympic gold medal.
Noah Lyles' Olympian Feat: Competing with a 102-Degree Fever
Despite the challenges, Lyles remained proud of his achievements. "I'd definitely say it's taken its toll, for sure, but I've never been more proud of myself for being able to come out here and get a bronze medal. Last Olympics, I was very disappointed. This time, I couldn't be more proud," he said.
Lyles pulled out of the men's 4x100-meter relay on Friday, but his Olympic journey ends on a high note. His bronze medal in the 200 meters is a symbol of his unwavering determination, and his gold medal in the 100 meters is a triumph he will cherish forever.
Lyles' story serves as an inspiration for all athletes, demonstrating that even when faced with adversity, relentless effort and unwavering belief can lead to extraordinary achievements.
