'Trying to remain relevant' - Noah Lyles 'world champions' recent statement divides fans as most blast him for doing too much

'Trying to remain relevant' - Noah Lyles 'world champions' recent statement divides fans as most blast him for doing too much

Funmilayo Fameso 15:06 - 08.09.2024

Olympic champion Noah Lyles has ignited NBA debate as most fans blast him for doing too much to remain relevant.

Controversial sprint star Noah Lyles has ignited fans' rage again following his recent statement about tennis players at the US Open, directly shading the NBA francise on their 'world champions' claims.

The Olympic 100m champion was present for the women's singles final match between Jessica Pegula and Aryna Sabalenka, and he was seen in the company of his girlfriend Junelle Bromfield as they sat beside Formula 1 star Lewis Hamilton.

In an interview with the US Open media team when jokingly asked if Tennis players are world champions, Lyles replied: "These are world champions. International players that play against the top in the world constantly, these are world champions."

Lyles is currently one of the most recognised athletics stars known for his achievements on the track but is perhaps more famous for his viral "World Champion" comments last year after winning the 100m title at the world championships in Budapest.

"You know the thing that hurts me the most, is that I have to watch the NBA Finals and they have 'world champion' on their head," Lyles said in August 2023. "World champion of what? The United States? Don't get me wrong, I love the U.S. at times, but that ain't the world."

Following his comment, the American speedster and record holder in the 200m event faced a lot of backlash, particularly from NBA players and fans. The topic became a debate again at the Paris Olympics when USA Basketball won gold, as the roster full of NBA stars dominated the rest of the tournament.

Now with his recent statement on tennis players, sports fans are divided again on the debate between supporting his claims and others believe he's using it to seek attention and remain relevant, igniting a new wave of reactions as shared below.

via @masterztre: This stuff so boring and tiring now. The fact that he only known for mainly this yet folks still aint gonna tune in to actually watch his sport like Rai thinks they do. Social media and Olympic hype got them fooled.

Via @kiefer_onenonly: "Now he’s trying too hard"

Via @cvlduzi: "Omg we tired of this guy I swear"

Via @kushpapi_: "Biggest cornball athlete of all time"

Via @smashhitssports: "can’t wait to not hear about dude for another 4 years"

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