Few names stand out in the world of men’s track and field like Noah Lyles, who secured a gold medal for Team USA after a 20-year drought in the Men’s 100m.
At just 27 years old, this Virginia native has earned the title of the fastest man in the world, capturing fans’ hearts with his determination and confidence. But his path to becoming a track star began in Gainesville, Florida.
“I was born with asthma, which was my first big hurdle,” the gold medalist tells EBONY. “I couldn’t do sports until I was about six or seven, and even then, it was tough.”
Lyles tried various sports, such as swimming, gymnastics, basketball and baseball, before finding his passion for track and field at age 10. A move to the DMV area during his teenage years marked a significant shift, as he began to focus more seriously on running and quickly discovered his exceptional speed.
Despite some early setbacks, including narrowly missing out on the 2016 Olympics with his brother, Lyles didn’t waver. “I’ve always believed that to succeed, you need the mindset of a god,” he reflects. “That confidence comes from facing hardships head-on, whether it was dealing with asthma, dyslexia or depression. Each challenge taught me something about myself and fueled my desire to excel.” This resilience has been a key factor in Lyles’s success, helping him become a six-time World Championship gold medalist and set numerous records.
Competing and winning at the Paris 2024 Olympics is a major highlight of Lyles’s career. “The opening ceremony was surreal, especially since it was my first time participating in one,” he says. “But what made it even more special was sharing the experience with my girlfriend, who also made the team. It was a moment of reflection and realization that all the hard work had paid off.”
Lyles showcased his talents globally, with vibrato and swag leading his win. On his recent collaboration with Tide and track legend Carl Lewis for the campaign “Stains Happens,” Lyles shares, “Working with Carl was incredible.”
“He’s a legend, and learning from him was an honor. The message behind the campaign resonates with me because it’s about embracing life’s imperfections.”
As a role model for many young athletes, Lyles offers this valuable advice: “Always make sure you’re having fun. Life is full of ups and downs, but if you know what brings you joy, that will carry you through tough times.” Lyles’s power and self-belief are qualities he hopes to inspire in the next generation. “I want them to see my path and know they can create their own, even if it’s unconventional.”
Looking ahead, Lyles has big plans both on and off the track. “I’m working on several projects that are still under wraps, but they’re going to change the sport,” he hints. “As for my legacy, I want to be remembered not just as a great athlete but as someone who changed the way people think about track and field. Whatever I do, I want to elevate it.”
Lyles’s rise in track and field is not just about speed but a relentless pursuit of excellence and the desire to make a lasting impact as he continues to make history and break records.
Congratulations on bringing home the gold!