In the world of track and field, few names resonate like Noah Lyles. Born on July 18th, 1997, in Gainesville, Florida, Lyles will go down in history as one of the most influential American track and field athletes to ever step foot on the track. Some of Lyles’s most impressive accolades include six world titles, three Olympic medals, and four Diamond League Final titles. However, he is far from done. It is evident that Lyles is one of this generation’s most decorated track athletes; however, his massive success is not the only thing that makes him stand out. Within track and field, Noah is described as above: an athlete who has proved time and time again to be among the most elite in the world. What makes Noah stand out from other track and field legends is his name outside the sport. In many ways, Noah Lyles has transcended the sport that is track and field and has solidified himself in the world of superstardom. Soccer has Ronaldo and Messi, basketball has LeBron and MJ, swimming has Phelps, gymnastics has Biles, and now track and field has Noah Lyles.

Noah Lyles’ rise to fame is unlike any other due to track and field’s structure and status on the global stage. A simple comparison between track and field and the world’s most popular sports explains why the sport struggles to gain widespread popularity. The sport is without a universal league that features teams or players on a traditional schedule leading up to a “championship” match. While the Wanda Diamond League is a set of races across the globe that culminates in a title race, the league does not feature a consistent set of athletes. Often, many of the world’s biggest names do not participate—including Noah Lyles. Unlike in the NFL, NBA, or NHL, it’s harder for fans to keep track of their favorite runner’s progression throughout the season without regular meetings that feature them. These inconsistencies mean track and field athletes have fewer fans, making it harder for athletes to obtain sponsorships. Furthermore, the lack of a universal league and inconsistent athlete appearances make videocasting track and field meets less lucrative and hard to access.

However, over the past few years, we have started to see a shift in how track and field is perceived. Much of this change can be attributed to Noah Lyles. Lyles can be seen arriving at meets in decked-out designer outfits, much like many NBA and NFL players, unlike many of his fellow athletes. This draws attention to Lyles and the sport, drawing in more viewers and exposure than ever before. For example, viewership of the US Track and Field Olympic Trials experienced a 38% increase from 2021. When asked about his opinions on Noah Lyles, Riverdale Track and Field Coach Mike Francis explained, “I think he’s good for the sport because like him or not, he brings much-needed attention to the sport. He’s making an effort to have the sport carry more weight, especially here in the States. This, of course, will hopefully and ultimately bring more revenue to the sport and allow more professional track athletes to prosper and last longer in the sport.”

While his elaborate outfits and public appearances have gained the attention of many viewers, not all of his publicity has been positive. Lyle’s arrogant attitude towards his competitors and athletes of other sports has caused a lot of controversy. Many haters believe he is too confident, preying on his downfall and finding any opportunity to point out a flaw or a mistake. Take, for example, the 2024 Paris Olympics. After boldly promoting his quest for the double gold, Lyles fell short, earning a gold medal in the 100-meter dash, but only a bronze medal in the 200-meter dash. However, instead of celebrating his success, the world was fast to criticize him and question his ability. Even though it is negative, this hate gains views and attention for the sport, positively impacting Lyles and Track and Field. Riverdale Track athlete and junior Tristan Strand, referencing Lyle’s controversial comment about NBA champions (”World champions of what, the United States?”), stressed how “even just the comment brought so many more fans or maybe haters but it just got more viewers to the sport. I think without him, there wouldn’t have been so many people tuning into track and realizing how good of a sport it is.” 

Whether loved or criticized, there’s no denying that Noah Lyles has played a crucial role in elevating the profile of track and field, paving the way for future generations of athletes to thrive in the sport.