“Put Them on This Pedestal”: Noah Lyles Explained Why He Doesn’t Idolize Usain Bolt in 2017 Interview

Noah Lyles emerged as a promising young athlete amidst high public expectations in 2017. During an interview with the Wanda Diamond League that same year, he shared his thoughts on the popular Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. Lyles shocked a lot of people by claiming that he didn’t idolize the famous sprinter.

The then 20-year-old acknowledged that appreciating and respecting fellow athletes in track and field or any sport is commendable. However, he cautioned against idolization, stating:

“But, if you start letting them become your idol then it becomes a point of your gonna put them on this pedestal that you won’t be able to break.”

As Bolt’s career concluded that season, a lot of attention was focused on his remarkable legacy. The Jamaican sprinter had amassed an impressive collection of eight Olympic gold medals and eleven World Championship titles throughout his illustrious career.

His achievements elevated both his status and the sport itself to unprecedented heights. Despite this, Lyles chose not to idolize or emulate Bolt, believing that such reverence might hinder his ability to surpass the Jamaican’s records.

The American noted that Bolt himself had to break existing records to set new benchmarks in the sport, which aligned with his own aspirations. However, Lyles identified a specific trait in Bolt that he wished to emulate:

“I love how much of a showman he is. I’d like to take that on into my characteristics when I run, but at the same time I’m coming for his records.”

Lyles was particularly impressed by Bolt’s showmanship, admiring how the Jamaican’s personality created a unique atmosphere at track competitions. He soon set out to make his own mark on the sport in terms of athletic prowess and entertainment.

Conquering the 2024 Olympics through showmanship

Eventually, Lyles developed his own flair for showmanship, captivating fans with his ability to entertain before, during, and after the races, much like Bolt had done.

He became one of the most anticipated athletes as the 2024 Paris Olympics approached and maintained public interest throughout the season by boldly promising Olympic gold and inching closer to Bolt’s world records.

While Lyles continued to exude charisma, emerging Jamaican sprinters Oblique Seville and Kishane Thompson posed challenges to some of his sprint performances.

However, Lyles triumphed at the Stade de France, clocking an impressive 9.79 seconds in the 100-meter final to become the Olympic and World champion in the 100 meters.