Noah Lyles wins 100m at US trials, heading for Olympics

Noah Lyles, the reigning world champion in the 100 meters, solidified his spot at the upcoming Olympics Games in Paris by emerging victorious in the men's 100m event at the US Olympic trials held in Eugene, Oregon. Following his earlier triumph in the semifinals, Lyles matched his personal best of 9.83 seconds to claim first place in the final race, securing his ticket to France. This is reported by SSP.

Finishing behind Lyles was Kenny Bednarek, who clocked a personal best time of 9.87 seconds to secure the second spot, while Fred Kerley, with a season's best of 9.88, secured third place. Both Bednarek and Kerley, who won silver medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 100m and 200m respectively, have also earned their qualification for Paris.

Notably, Lyles had missed out on competing in the 100m event in Tokyo after finishing seventh at the trials. However, he claimed a bronze medal in the 200m competition. Reflecting on his journey, Lyles expressed his determination and unwavering focus, stating, "Three years ago I got second to last. This year I came and won it... When you know the goal, you know the goal."

Displaying remarkable confidence throughout, Lyles commanded the race from the start, capturing the attention of the crowd as the last entrant in the final. Crossing the finish line, he jubilantly raised his finger to the sky in celebration before the race concluded.

While 2019 world champion Christian Coleman initially surged ahead at the beginning, he faltered midway and ultimately finished fourth, trailing Kerley by a mere 0.05 seconds. With the American representation in the men's 100m event now secured, Lyles has set his sights on a dual victory, aiming to triumph in the 200m race as well.

The Tokyo Olympics are slated to take place from July 26 to August 11, with the highly anticipated men's 100m final scheduled for August 4. Lyles, exuding confidence, has his sights set on surpassing the American record and leaving his mark on history.