US sprint star Noah Lyles endured a rare defeat in the 200m final at the US National Championship, pulling up abruptly with leg cramps. The incident, which occurred down the home straight at Icahn Stadium in New York, saw Lyles finish last in a time of 50.88s, giving college athlete Garrett Kaalund an unexpected victory in 20.04s.
This marks only the fourth time Lyles has been beaten over the 200m distance since he began dominating the event in 2018. Notably, two of his previous losses were in the finals of the last two Olympic Games, where he secured bronze medals on both occasions.
The 29-year-old, however, quickly allayed fears about the severity of the issue, smiling as he spoke to reporters after the race. Lyles attributed his sudden stop to a 'grabbing sensation' in his left hamstring, stating he pulled up out of caution rather than pushing through. He described it simply as a cramp, indicating a need for stretching and electrolyte intake.
The demanding schedule of the championship weekend likely contributed to the incident. Lyles had already showcased his exceptional form by clocking a world-leading time of 9.79s to win the 100m on Friday evening. He also ran an even faster wind-assisted 9.76s in the semi-final. Lyles admitted that running two sub-9.8 second 100m races in one day was 'kind of crazy' and that he may have underestimated the physical toll when preparing for the 200m final. He reflected on the immense physical demands, drawing parallels to the legendary Usain Bolt's sustained dominance.
In related news from the event, reigning world champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden secured her second consecutive national title in the women's 200m, achieving a season-best time of 21.69s. This victory sets the stage for exciting competition in the upcoming World Athletics Ultimate Championships, where a substantial $150,000 first prize awaits the winner. The women's 200m is anticipated to feature a star-studded field, including Jefferson-Wooden, Gabby Thomas (who opted not to compete at the US Nationals), and Julien Alfred, runner-up to Thomas at the Paris Olympics.