Many fans anticipated Noah Lyles’ dominance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, especially after his big talk leading up to the event. Despite a slow start in the 100m, Lyles delivered a memorable photo finish. However, he couldn’t maintain that momentum in his signature event, the 200m, where he had to settle for a third-place finish, despite previously being a dominant force in the race. After his Olympic campaign, the 27-year-old has decided to end his season and take a well-deserved break.
In a September 13 episode of the podcast “Ready Set Go,” hosted by Justin Gatlin and Rodney Green, the two discussed Lyles’ absence from the Diamond League and speculated on his next steps. Gatlin expressed his belief that skipping the Diamond League means Lyles would miss out on necessary post-championship training, stating, “It wouldn’t be a restful season after the Olympics. He’s going to have to run even harder after post-championships.”
Gatlin also weighed in on what Lyles could focus on going into 2025, with the World Championships scheduled for September of that year. As Lyles is both the reigning Olympic and world champion in the 100m and 200m, Gatlin pondered whether he should attempt to defend both titles or concentrate on one. The retired sprinter stated that he personally hopes Lyles continues his journey in the 200m, referencing his impressive record of 19.30 seconds in the event. Gatlin emphasized that the competition in the 200m is now fierce, with multiple athletes clocking times under 19.40 seconds, making it a thrilling challenge for Lyles.
After securing his second world title at the 2022 World Championships in Oregon, where he set a new personal best of 19.31 seconds, Lyles’ performance in Paris with a time of 19.70 seconds seemed underwhelming. Despite the setbacks, Gatlin is hopeful Lyles will refocus on the 200m, which many consider his true specialty. Gatlin also mentioned that Lyles has already proven himself by winning Olympic gold in the 100m, but he now eagerly awaits the sprinter’s plans for 2025.
As many of his peers, including Kenny Bednarek, Fred Kerley, and Letsile Tebogo, continue to participate in Diamond League events, fans were left disappointed when Lyles was spotted attending fashion events like New York Fashion Week and enjoying the US Open instead of racing. When asked about his absence from the upcoming meets, Lyles confirmed that his season had officially ended, citing post-COVID exhaustion as a key reason for his decision to step away.
Gatlin concluded by expressing his anticipation for Lyles’ future decisions, saying, “2025. I need to know. We need to know what the answer is, man. Where are we gonna see Noah at?” Fans and analysts alike continue to speculate about whether Lyles’ absence from the Diamond League is a sign of weakness or simply a strategic decision, and whether he can return stronger next season.
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