Olympic gold medalist Letsile Tebogo made a sly comment about American counterpart Noah Lyles after his 200-meter victory, suggesting Lyles is better suited as the face of men's track due to his outspoken personality.
Olympic gold medalist Letsile Tebogo of Botswana humbly declined to assume the mantle of 'face of men's track' after his stunning victory in the 200-meter final on Thursday, citing his lack of boisterousness compared to rival Noah Lyles.
Tebogo, making his Olympic debut, shattered the field to seize gold in a gripping race, eclipsing Lyles, who settled for bronze after battling a recent bout of COVID-19.
Tebogo Takes Subtle Dig at Rival Lyles, Deflects Role as Track's 'Face'
Following the race, the Botswana runner fielded questions about his aspirations and whether he envisioned himself as the sport's new icon. Tebogo acknowledged Lyles' suitability for such a role, but not without a subtle dig at the American's demeanor.
"I think for me, I can't be the face of athletics because I'm not an arrogant or loud person like Noah [Lyles]," he told reporters. "So, I believe Noah is the face of athletics."
Tebogo Takes Subtle Dig at Rival Lyles, Deflects Role as Track's 'Face'
Tebogo's comment drew attention to Lyles' outspoken nature, a trait that has both attracted and repelled fans. After winning three gold medals at last year's world championships, Lyles faced criticism for suggesting that other athletes, such as NBA players, lacked the right to call themselves world champions.
"I have to watch the NBA Finals, and they have 'world champion' on their head. World champion of what?" Lyles had said. "The United States? Don't get me wrong. I love the U.S. at times, but that ain't the world. That is not the world."
Tebogo Takes Subtle Dig at Rival Lyles, Deflects Role as Track's 'Face'
Despite his success on the track, Lyles' unvarnished self-promotion has drawn mixed reactions. After winning the United States' first gold medal in the men's 100m since 2004 this week, Lyles aimed to solidify his claim as the sport's best by becoming the first American to win both the 100m and 200m since 1984.
However, he fell short in the 200m and will likely miss Friday's 4x100m relay due to his recovery from COVID-19.
Despite the setback, Lyles remains confident in his status as the world's fastest man. In a social media message, he wrote, "Whether you were rooting for me or against me, you have to admit you watched, didn't you?" He signed off with the declaration, "Sincerely, Your world's fastest man for the next 4 years!"
Tebogo, on the other hand, appears content to let his performances speak for themselves, preferring to avoid the spotlight and controversy that often accompany the label of 'face of athletics.' Humble and focused, he embodies a different kind of star, one who lets his actions do the talking on and off the track.
