“Tension Mounts: Why Noah Lyles Is Hesitant to Join
Former Olympic champion Justin Gatlin has expressed support for Noah Lyles’ skepticism toward Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track event. Despite attracting big names like Kenny Bednarek, Fred Kerley, Gabby Thomas, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Johnson has yet to convince Lyles to participate.
Lyles has cited the absence of a global broadcaster for the event as a key reason for his hesitation. While the competition offers $100,000 per win across its four legs, Lyles wants to ensure the event has worldwide visibility. Gatlin, in his Ready Set Go podcast, echoed Lyles’ concerns, stating that as the sport’s biggest star, Lyles is right to demand a platform that meets his standards and enhances his global reach.
Gatlin praised Lyles’ vision for expanding his influence beyond track and field, emphasizing the need for exposure that transcends the sport. He suggested that Lyles should aim to build a broader persona, much like rapper Snoop Dogg, who remains relevant despite not releasing music regularly.
The Grand Slam Track, slated for 2025, will feature four events starting in Kingston, Jamaica (April 4–6), followed by Miami (May 2–4), Philadelphia (May 30–June 1), and Los Angeles (June 27–29). Competitors will participate in various disciplines, including sprints, hurdles, and distance races. However, Lyles’ reluctance, coupled with Sha’Carri Richardson’s potential absence, could pose challenges for Johnson’s inaugural
league.
