Noah Lyles wins 100m final by 5 thousandths of a second as Usain Bolt’s Colosseum captures photo finish at Olympics

Noah Lyles wins 100m final by 5 thousandths of a second as Usain Bolt’s Colosseum captures photo finish at Olympics

Noah Lyles has etched his name in the annals of Olympic history by ending the USA’s 20-year wait for the prestigious 100m title at the Paris Olympics 2024. In a thrilling race that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Lyles claimed the gold medal by a mere five thousandths of a second. His remarkable performance not only crowned him the fastest man on the planet but also brought the United States back to the top in the medal standings. The race, held at the monumental Stade de France, was one of the most closely contested 100m finals in the modern history of the Olympics.

The Showman: Noah Lyles’ Charismatic Build-Up

Arriving at the Olympic Village as the reigning world champion, Noah Lyles did not shy away from the spotlight. Known for his charismatic personality, Lyles was seen donning sunglasses, a hat, and even a mask to reduce unwanted attention. In the semi-finals, his flashy Team USA-themed nail polish and WWE superstar-like gestures made him a crowd favorite. Despite a sluggish start in the semis, where he clocked 10.04 seconds and finished behind British sprinter Louie Hinchliffe, Lyles remained undeterred. His semi-final performance, though not his best, set the stage for the grand showdown.

The Jamaican Challenge: A Death Stare and a Rivalry

Lyles’ journey to the final was not without its challenges. In the semi-finals, he faced a formidable opponent in Jamaica’s Oblique Seville. Two months prior, at the Racers Grand Prix, Seville had given Lyles a menacing death stare, and the tension between the two sprinters was palpable again in Paris. Seville managed to finish ahead of Lyles in the semi-finals, adding fuel to their rivalry. However, it was in the final where Lyles truly shone, overcoming the psychological and physical challenges posed by his Jamaican rival.

The Closest 100m Final: A Photo Finish

The men’s 100m final at the Paris Olympics will be remembered as the closest in history. Lyles secured his gold medal in a breathtaking photo finish, clocking 9.784 seconds, just ahead of Jamaica’s Kishane Thompson, who recorded 9.789 seconds. Both sprinters were officially listed as having completed the race in 9.79 seconds, but the difference came down to the width of a vest. American Fred Kerley secured the bronze with a time of 9.81 seconds, while South Africa’s Akani Simbini finished fourth. The margin of victory was so slim that if the race had been just one meter shorter, Thompson would have claimed the gold.

The Perfect Dip: Lyles’ Winning Strategy

What set Lyles apart in the final moments of the race was his impeccable timing. As they neared the finish line, Lyles executed a perfect dip, edging out Thompson by the slimmest of margins. This masterful technique, honed through years of training and competition, made all the difference. Lyles’ victory not only highlighted his physical prowess but also his tactical acumen. His ability to maintain composure and deliver under pressure exemplifies the qualities of a true champion.

Usain Bolt’s Legacy: A Colosseum of Records

No discussion of Olympic sprinting is complete without mentioning Usain Bolt, the undisputed sprint king. Bolt’s career is decorated with eight Olympic gold medals, although one was revoked due to a doping scandal involving teammate Nesta Carter. Bolt still holds the world records for the 100m and 200m events, having set an astonishing 9.58 seconds in the 100m at the World Championships in 2009. His Olympic record of 9.63 seconds, set at the London 2012 Games, remains unbeaten. Bolt’s dominance in sprinting set a high bar for future athletes, including Lyles.

The Future: Can Lyles Match Bolt’s Feats?

As Noah Lyles basks in the glory of his 100m gold, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he can replicate Usain Bolt’s feats in the 200m event. Bolt was the first sprinter to win both the 100m and 200m events at consecutive Olympics, a remarkable achievement that solidified his legacy. Lyles, who has already proven his mettle in the 100m, now aims to make history by winning the 200m as well. If successful, he would become the first sprinter since Bolt to accomplish this double victory at the Olympics.

 A New Era in Sprinting

Noah Lyles’ victory at the Paris Olympics 2024 marks the dawn of a new era in sprinting. His triumph is not just a personal achievement but also a significant moment for USA’s track and field history. The electrifying 100m final, decided by a mere five thousandths of a second, will be remembered as one of the greatest races in Olympic history. As Lyles prepares for the 200m event, the world watches with bated breath, eager to see if he can continue his winning streak and etch his name alongside the legendary Usain Bolt. Whether or not he matches Bolt’s records, Lyles has already secured his place in the pantheon of great sprinters, inspiring future generations to dream big and push the boundaries of human potential.

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