The United States extended its medal drought in the men's 4x100-meter relay to 20 years after a botched handoff in the first leg of the race led to a disqualification. Team USA finished in seventh place but was later disqualified after Christian Coleman handed off the baton to Kenneth Bednarek outside the exchange zone.
The United States' hopes for a podium finish in the men's 4x100-meter relay at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics were dashed on Friday after a botched handoff led to a disqualification. The team of Christian Coleman, Kenneth Bednarek, Kyree King, and Fred Kerley crossed the line in seventh place, but their fate was sealed when Coleman handed off the baton to Bednarek outside the designated exchange zone.
The disqualification marked another setback for Team USA in the event, which they have not won since 2000. The only time they managed to secure a medal in the past two decades was in 2012, but that was later stripped due to a doping violation.
Team USA's 4x100-meter Relay Disappointment: Rain and Lyles' Absence Loom Large
The absence of American track star Noah Lyles, who won gold in the 100-meter race, was also a significant factor in the team's disappointing performance. Lyles revealed after claiming bronze in the 200-meter final on Thursday that he had contracted COVID-19 earlier in the week, ending his participation in the Games.
Lyles' absence left a void in the team's lineup, as the 23-year-old is one of the fastest sprinters in the world. His presence could have provided the necessary boost to challenge the likes of Canada, South Africa, and Great Britain, who finished on the podium.
Team USA's 4x100-meter Relay Disappointment: Rain and Lyles' Absence Loom Large
Coleman expressed his disappointment after the race, acknowledging that the team had the potential to perform better. "We knew we had the speed to do it," Coleman said. "But we are human beings, too. We've been through ups and downs in life. This is just another one of those times where we've just got to keep our head down and just keep pushing."
The botched handoff between Coleman and Bednarek was a major talking point after the race. Bednarek appeared to start too early or too quickly, nearly coming to a halt before receiving the baton. The slight hesitation proved costly, as it resulted in the disqualification.
Team USA's 4x100-meter Relay Disappointment: Rain and Lyles' Absence Loom Large
Despite the setback, the United States remains a powerhouse in sprinting. The women's 4x100-meter relay team, featuring rising star Sha'Carri Richardson, claimed gold on Friday, marking the 12th time the U.S. women have won the event at the Olympics.
The men's team will have to regroup and reassess their strategy for future competitions. With Lyles expected to return to full fitness, they will have a chance to regain their dominance on the global stage.
