Track Star Noah Lyles Says It's 'Bittersweet' To Represent The United States As A Black Man
Noah Lyles is undoubtedly the most popular track and field competitor in the United States, but as he gears up for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the ‘USA’ written across his chest has begun to weigh on him. According to Lyles, representing America as a black man is a "bittersweet" situation.
Lyles regularly poses with the United States flag after meddling around the world and does believe that there is no better country on the planet when it comes to sport, but things away from the track, well, that's a different story.
"It’s a bittersweet moment. I’m American, and I truly believe that we are the best in the world, especially when it comes to sports. We have definitely been proving that dominance. … And it feels good to add on to that collection that the U.S. is the best," Lyles said in a recent interview with Fox News Digital.
"But at the same time, it’s with a heavy heart, because being Black in America, there’s a lot to deal with. I’m not going to go into everything, but it’s not easy. It’s hard to love the country that sometimes doesn’t love you back."
"At the same time, you always want to put your best foot forward. So, it’s a little contradicting, it's with a heavy heart, but it still makes you feel extremely proud because you are an American."
Lyles conveniently didn't want to give a single example of what "a lot to deal with" means as a black American, but he did go on to admit that he's contemplated quitting the sport because of past experiences.
The 26-year-old is the heavy favorite to win gold in the men's 200-meter in Paris and breaking Usain Bolt's world record of 19.19 isn't entirely out of the question. All eyes will be on him, which is exactly what he's been striving for throughout his career. He hopes that his candid comments like the one he shared about the "bittersweet" emotions representing the country will only build his brand.
"I want to be able to give my voice and my thoughts and see people look at the sport and be like, ‘Wow, I like that guy, I want to see more of him, I want to watch more of this sport.’ I don’t feel pressure from it because this is what I’ve asked for," Lyles said.
Claiming that there is a lot to deal with while you're a global superstar in your very niche sport is a bold strategy in an attempt to build a brand.