Some big news about Noah Lyles emerged on Thursday.
Lyles finished third in the men’s 200-meter sprint at the Paris Olympics on Thursday. That was a disappointing finish given that he had won gold in the 100 meters and was expected to have a better finish in the 200. However, news emerged shortly after the race that Lyles was running despite being ill with Covid-19.
Lyles was diagnosed with Covid-19 on Tuesday but decided to compete anyway, according to NBC's Lewis Johnson, who spoke with Lyles' mother.
The 27-year-old sprinter was taken away on a wheelchair after the race.
Lewis Johnson provides an update on Noah Lyles’ condition after he received medical attention following the 200m final. #ParisOlympics
NBC & Peacock pic.twitter.com/3qRHsNe4JE
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 8, 2024
Lyles was shown by NBC’s cameras wearing a mask prior to his semifinal heat. Learning now that he had Covid-19 at the time helps explain the behavior.
You can see the race, which was won by Letsile Tebogo.
LETSILE TEBOGO WINS THE MEN’S 200M FOR BOTSWANA!
#ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/jL9jm4bTKZ
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) August 8, 2024
In addition to having Covid-19 currently, Lyles also battles asthma. It’s unclear whether he will participate in the 4x100-meter relay for Team USA given his condition.
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