VIDEO: I can't be the face of athletics because I'm not arrogant like Noah Lyles - Letsile Tebogo

Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo made history by winning the men’s 200 meters at the 2024 Summer Olympics, securing Africa’s first gold in the event. 

In a surprise result, Tebogo defeated American sprinter Noah Lyles, who had been widely expected to win after his gold in the 100 meters. Lyles finished with the bronze, while his compatriot Kenny Bednarek claimed silver.

Following his victory, Tebogo made headlines with his comments about Lyles during the post-race press conference.

Letsile Tebogo was asked after winning the men's 200m final if he aspires to world records and being the face of track and field.

Here was his answer:

"I can't be the face of athletics because I'm not an arrogant or a loud person like Noah (Lyles)."#Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/HzafPb1kaM

— FloTrack (@FloTrack) August 8, 2024

When asked if he saw himself becoming the face of athletics, the 21-year-old responded, "I think, for me, I can't be the face of athletics because I'm not an arrogant or a loud person like Noah (Lyles). So, I believe Noah is the face of athletics."

Tebogo’s remarks have sparked speculation about whether he was subtly criticizing Lyles or simply acknowledging the American’s high-profile presence in the sport. 

Despite the upset, Lyles graciously congratulated Tebogo after the race and on social media, where he also revealed that his Olympic campaign had ended due to a COVID-19 diagnosis.