Eyes Set on Olympic Glory
Noah Lyles, awarded the World Athletics men’s track athlete of the year, isn’t content with his current success. The 26-year-old sprinter, undefeated in the 200-meter dash, remains focused on achieving Olympic greatness and leaving a lasting mark on the sport.
A Stellar Year and Historic Wins
Starting and ending the year unbeaten in his specialty, Lyles clinched gold in the 200-meter men’s final at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, setting a time of 19.52 seconds. This marked his third gold in the event and fifth overall at the biennial competition, surpassing sprinting legends Michael Johnson and Calvin Smith.
Noteworthy Relationship and Personal Life
In a relationship with Jamaican track star Junelle Bromfield, also an Olympic sprinter, Lyles celebrated their one-year anniversary, showcasing their bond and adventures.
Bromfield’s influence extends beyond support; she encouraged Lyles’ expressive side, advocating for him to paint his nails at the World Athletics Championships.
Financial Standing and Ventures Beyond Athletics
Lyles’ net worth, estimated between $5-$10 million, stems from his track achievements and endorsement deals with brands like Adidas, Gatorade, and Beats By Dre. Beyond athletics, he’s a rapper under the alias Nojo18, releasing albums during the pandemic and delving into fashion, modeling for Hugo Boss.
Social Media Influence and Advocacy Work
With a significant following on Instagram and TikTok, Lyles shares his training routines, competitions, and glimpses into his life, also championing mental health and youth development through ‘The Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation,’ a non-profit he co-founded with his younger brother.
Track Record and Olympic Aspirations
Lyles’ expertise lies in the 200-meter dash, holding an American record of 19.31 seconds, alongside a bronze medal from the Tokyo Olympics. Not confined to the 200m, he showcased his prowess in the 100m, setting a personal best of 9.83 seconds this year. His versatility extends to the 300m indoor event.
Comparisons to Bolt and Ongoing Journey
While Lyles is steadily carving his legacy, comparisons arise with sprinting icon Usain Bolt. Bolt, a record-holder with eight Olympic golds and multiple World Champion titles, stands as a pinnacle in the sport.
Lyles continues his ascent, having caught attention since his victory at the Nanjing Youth Olympic Games in 2014, steadily making his mark in the Diamond League and broader sprinting disciplines.