Botswana fans mock Noah Lyles' wheelchair exit during Letsile Tebogo's Presidential reception

Botswana fans mock Noah Lyles' wheelchair exit during Letsile Tebogo's Presidential reception

Eric Munene 11:33 - 14.08.2024

Tebogo emerged victorious in the 200m final and Lyles came out on a wheelchair claiming to have contracted COVID-19

During the aftermath of Letsile Tebogo's historic 200m gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics, a Botswana fan’s light-hearted antics have become a focal point of both amusement and controversy.

At the celebration event held in Gaborone’s national stadium, a particularly spirited fan stole the spotlight with his playful imitation of Noah Lyles' exit from the Olympic venue.

As thousands of Botswana residents gathered to honor their Olympic heroes, the atmosphere was one of jubilant celebration.

Amid the festivities, one fan, who was seated in a wheelchair, began mimicking the scene of Lyles' departure after his defeat.

The fan, donning a wide grin, used his wheelchair as a makeshift stage, dancing and swaying to the traditional songs being sung in Tebogo’s honor.

His antics were a clear jest directed at Lyles' emotional exit, which had captured significant media attention.

The fan’s performance drew a mixed reaction from the crowd. Many in the stadium found the display humorous and in keeping with the light-hearted spirit of the event, applauding the fan's creativity and enthusiasm.

However, others viewed the act as in poor taste, considering the seriousness of Lyles' situation and the intensity of the competition.

Noah Lyles, who finished 3rd behind Tebogo in the 200m final, had left the arena in a wheelchair, which was widely reported and commented on across media channels.

Despite the mixed responses, the fan’s actions did not overshadow the overarching theme of the celebration—the immense pride and joy felt by Botswana for their Olympic achievements.

The event continued to be a testament to national pride, as Tebogo’s triumph and the team’s performance were celebrated with fervor and joy across the country.

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