Noah Lyles wins 200m final at US Championships

Noah Lyles achieved a dramatic victory in the men's 200m at the USATF Outdoor Championships.

Noah Lyles triumphs over Kenny Bednarek in thrilling 200m final

Noah Lyles shone at the Toyota USA Track and Field Outdoor Championships, clinching a dramatic victory over Kenny Bednarek in the men's 200m final. Lyles, who holds the Olympic 100m gold medal, clocked a remarkable 19.63 seconds, marking the fastest time in the world for 2025. With this win, he secured his fifth U.S. title in the 200m, equaling the record held by legends Michael Johnson and Ralph Metcalfe. Despite already qualifying for the World Championships, Lyles chose to compete, highlighting his competitive spirit. The race intensified as Lyles edged past Bednarek in the final strides, creating a moment of confrontation as Bednarek shoved Lyles after the finish line. Bednarek, who struggled recently with injuries, acknowledged the challenge of racing Lyles. They exchanged quick words following the race, hinting at a deeper rivalry. In an exciting conclusion to the event, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden made history by sweeping the national titles in both the 100m and 200m categories, becoming the first woman to do so since 2003.

Lyles' victory in the men's 200m not only cements his status as a dominant figure in American track and field but also sets the stage for an intriguing narrative as he prepares for the World Championships. The palpable tension between Lyles and Bednarek adds a layer of rivalry that will undoubtedly attract audience interest and media coverage. Jefferson-Wooden's impressive performance also highlights the emergence of female athletes reshaping the landscape of U.S. track and field. These developments underscore the competition's growing intensity as athletes vie for international recognition.

Highlights

As the World Championships approach, the stakes have never been higher for these talented athletes.