'God gave me a sign' - Noah Lyles opens up on his spiritual journey en-route to track success

Noah Lyles prays after smashing the American 200m record back in 2022 || Courtesy

'God gave me a sign' - Noah Lyles opens up on his spiritual journey en-route to track success

Mark Kinyanjui 17:30 - 05.01.2025

Noah Lyles opens up on how he had to find his own journey with God through track after finding himself losing the 'trust' of many churches that 'misused' the word.

Noah Lyles, the reigning Olympic 100m champion and a six-time World Champion, has shared an intimate glimpse into his spiritual journey and how his faith has guided him through the highs and lows of his illustrious track career.

Speaking candidly about his relationship with God, Lyles revealed moments of self-doubt and the signs he believes were divinely sent to reaffirm his purpose in athletics.

"I have my own journey with God. It’s not the most conventional one," Lyles admitted, reflecting on his early exposure to religion. While he grew up attending church and absorbing its teachings, he also encountered moments that challenged his trust in organized faith.

"There have been times where I felt churches misused the word, and it broke a lot of trust," he said. 

"I had to find my own journey with God, and a lot of that came through track. There were times I wasn’t sure I could do it, and I would ask God, ‘If you want me to do this, show me a sign.’ And He did."

Lyles’ faith was especially pivotal during the challenges he faced at the Paris Olympics, where he narrowly won gold in the 100m and claimed bronze in the 200m despite battling COVID-19. 

Reflecting on his decision to compete despite the risks, Lyles explained:"I believe God does things for a purpose and a reason. I’ve been sick before and fought through it. I’d be very upset with myself if I didn’t at least try."

His resilience paid off, culminating in a historic triple gold medal performance at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. Lyles became the first man since Usain Bolt to win the 100m, 200m, and relay at the same event, cementing his place among sprinting legends.

Beyond his physical prowess, Lyles credits his mental fortitude and unwavering faith for his success:"I thank God every day for getting me through each and every round—healthy, mentally, and physically," he said after his 100m Olympic victory.

In an earlier interview with Sky Sports, Lyles emphasized the importance of mindset, urging others to embrace challenges with the belief that they are divinely equipped to overcome them:"God has put forth everything I need to succeed. If there’s a challenge, it’s because He knows I have the tools to overcome it. The moment was made for me to do something special."

Lyles’ career accomplishments further underscore his unique blend of faith and determination. In addition to his Olympic gold and six World Championship titles, he shattered Michael Johnson’s longstanding American 200m record with a time of 19.31 in 2022, placing him third on the all-time list.

From his early victories at the 2019 World Championships in Doha to his recent dominance in Budapest, Lyles’ journey exemplifies perseverance, spiritual growth, and the belief that every challenge is an opportunity to shine.

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